Philodendron

Philodendrons are by far one of our favourite houseplants to grow. With their incredible tropical foliage and relatively low maintenance care requirements, they make excellent additions to any indoor space. These plants belong to a diverse genus with nearly 1,000 species, native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. In their natural habitat, they grow under the dense forest canopy, either creeping along the ground or climbing tree trunks with their aerial roots.

At GrowTropicals, we have had the pleasure of selling over 200 different varieties of Philodendron, from the eye-catching 'McDowell' to the amazingly unique 'Florida Ghost'. With Philodendron being one of the most popular houseplant species to date, we've put together a comprehensive guide to equip you with everything you need to know about keeping these tropical plants happy and healthy in your space.

Growth Habits: Climbing vs. Crawling

Before we dive into care, it is important to understand what type of Philodendron(s) you have. Philodendrons can be broadly categorised into two main growth habits: climbing and crawling. Understanding their natural growth patterns and environmental preferences is key to helping them thrive in your home.

Climbing Philodendrons

Many Philodendron species are natural climbers, using their aerial roots to attach themselves to trees in their native habitat. Indoors, they require a moss pole, trellis, or stake to climb, which encourages larger leaf development and stronger growth. Examples of climbing Philodendrons include Philodendron 'Florida Ghost', Philodendron 'White Princess', and Philodendron 'Burle Marx' Variegated.

If left unsupported, climbing species will become leggy as they search for something to grasp onto. Providing a support structure helps them mimic their natural growth pattern, resulting in more robust, healthy foliage.

Crawling Philodendrons

Crawling Philodendrons, such as Philodendron Mamei, spread horizontally along the forest floor. Instead of growing upwards, these plants develop long, creeping stems that require a wide and shallow pot to accommodate their natural growth pattern. A moss pole is unnecessary for these plants, but ensuring adequate horizontal space is essential for maintaining their striking foliage.

Light Requirements

Philodendrons thrive in bright, indirect light. In their natural habitat, they grow beneath a dense canopy of trees, receiving dappled sunlight. While they can tolerate lower light conditions, insufficient light will result in slower growth, smaller leaves, and leggy stems. On the other hand, too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorching, browning edges, and faded colours.

Variegated varieties, such as Philodendron 'White Princess', require more light than their non-variegated counterparts to maintain their striking patterns. If your Philodendron is losing its variegation, consider moving it to a brighter spot or supplementing with a grow light.

An east or north-facing window is ideal for most Philodendrons, though they can also do well in a south- or west-facing window if protected by sheer curtains to diffuse direct sunlight.

Watering Practices

Getting the watering schedule right is crucial for Philodendron health. These plants like their soil to be consistently moist but not soggy. Overwatering is a common mistake and can lead to root rot, one of the biggest threats to Philodendron survival.

To water properly:

• Stick your finger into the soil – if the top 2 inches are dry, it’s time to water.

• Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.

• Water thoroughly until excess moisture drains from the bottom of the pot, then discard any excess water from the saucer.

• During winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant’s growth slows down.

Best Soil and Potting Mix

Philodendrons thrive in a well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. The best mix should be light and airy, promoting good aeration around the roots. Our Monstera & Philodendron Potting Mix is specially formulated for Aroids like Philodendrons.

This mix ensures a healthy root system and prevents common soil-related issues such as compaction and poor drainage.

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Repotting Your Philodendron

Philodendrons generally need repotting every 1-2 years, depending on their growth rate. Signs that your plant needs a larger pot include:

• Roots poking out of the drainage holes.

• Soil drying out very quickly after watering.

• Stunted growth or smaller leaves.

When repotting, select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes. Repotting not only gives the roots more space to grow but also refreshes the soil, supplying essential nutrients.

Propagating Philodendron

Philodendrons are easy to propagate, making them a fantastic plant to share with friends and family. The best method is stem cuttings:

1. Use sterilised scissors to take a cutting with at least one node.

2. Place the cutting in water, sphagnum moss, or perlite to root.

3. Keep it in a warm, humid environment and change the water regularly if using the water propagation method.

4. Once the roots are around 5cm long, transplant the cutting into soil.

Propagation works best in spring and summer, when the plant is actively growing.

Are Philodendrons Pet-Friendly?

No, Philodendrons are toxic to pets due to calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested, they can cause irritation, drooling, and stomach upset in cats and dogs. Keep them out of reach of pets, or choose pet-friendly alternatives.

Yellowing Leaves

The most common reasons for yellow leaves in Philodendrons are overwatering, underwatering, or poor drainage. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering leads to dehydration. Additionally, older leaves naturally turn yellow as they age, which is normal.

Solution:

• Check soil moisture by inserting your finger about an inch deep. If it’s soggy, wait for the soil to dry before watering again. If it’s bone dry, give your plant a thorough drink.
  
  

• Use a well-draining potting mix with peat and perlite to retain moisture while allowing excess water to drain.
  
  

• Ensure the pot has drainage holes and avoid letting water sit in the saucer.
  
  

• If only one or two older leaves are yellowing and falling off, it may just be part of the plant’s natural cycle.
  
  

Brown Leaf Tips

Brown tips in Philodendrons often signal low humidity, underwatering, or salt buildup from tap water. Since many Philodendrons are tropical, they thrive in humid environments. Dry indoor air can cause leaf edges to crisp up.

To combat, increase humidity using a humidifier and water consistently, making sure the plant never completely dries out but also isn’t sitting in water.

If you use tap water, let it sit overnight before watering to allow chlorine and fluoride to dissipate, or switch to filtered water.

Droopy Leaves

Droopy Philodendron leaves can result from overwatering, underwatering, or temperature stress. Overwatering makes leaves appear limp and mushy, while underwatering causes them to wilt and curl. Sudden temperature changes, such as drafts from air conditioners or heaters, can also shock the plant.

Solution:

• Feel the soil: If it’s soggy, let it dry out before watering again. If it’s dry, water thoroughly.
  
  

• Keep the plant in a stable environment away from cold drafts, heaters, or direct AC vents. Philodendrons prefer temperatures between 18-27°C.

• If leaves remain droopy for several days despite proper watering, check the roots for rot by gently removing the plant from its pot. If the roots are black and mushy, trim the damaged parts and repot in fresh soil.
  
  

Pests (Spider Mites, Mealybugs, Aphids)

Philodendrons can attract pests, especially in dry conditions with poor air circulation. Spider mites create fine webbing, mealybugs leave behind white cotton-like residue, and aphids cluster on new growth, sucking out plant juices.

To help, we would suggest:

• Wipe leaves with a damp cloth regularly to keep dust and pests away.
  

• Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap, applying every few days until pests are gone.
  

• Increase humidity, as spider mites thrive in dry air.
  

• Isolate the affected plant from others to prevent spreading.

Trending Philodendron at GrowTropicals

We stock a stunning variety of Philodendrons, including:

Philodendron Gloriosum from £8.99 →

Philodendron Ring of Fire from £15.99 →

Philodendron Scandens 'Brasil' from £8.99 →

Need More Help with Your Houseplants?

Caring for Philodendrons can be a rewarding experience as these plants add beauty and elegance to any houseplant collection. 

If you have any specific questions or need further assistance with your Philodendron, feel free to reach out to us via email - hello@growtropicals.com. Our plant experts are always here to help.

Shop our full collection of Philodendrons and plant care products today.