So, you've snagged a magnificent large leaf philodendron. Congratulations! You've embarked on a journey with one of the most visually rewarding and relatively easy-to-care-for plants in the indoor jungle. But let's be honest, even "easy" requires a little know-how. This guide will equip you with everything you need to keep your philodendron happy, healthy, and, most importantly, producing those breathtaking, oversized leaves.
We'll navigate the essential aspects of care - from the perfect lighting conditions to the ideal watering schedule - ensuring your leafy companion thrives. We will also cover some common pitfalls that can trip up even seasoned plant parents, offering practical solutions to keep your philodendron flourishing. Get ready to transform your space into a verdant paradise.
Let's dive in and get your philodendron thriving. We'll cover everything from Philodendron selloum care to how to deal with yellow leaves.
Light is the lifeblood of any houseplant, and your large leaf philodendron is no exception. These beauties crave bright, indirect light. Think dappled sunlight, like what you'd find under a forest canopy. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch those delicate leaves. A few hours of morning sun followed by bright, indirect light for the rest of the day is generally ideal. Too much direct sun can lead to yellowing leaves, while too little light can result in stunted growth and smaller leaves.
What does "bright, indirect light" actually mean? Well, it's not directly in front of a south-facing window. Instead, it's the filtered light you get a few feet away from a window, or from an east-facing window. North-facing windows also provide adequate light, but the growth will be slightly slower. If you're unsure, observe your plant. Leggy growth or small leaf size often indicates insufficient light. If your plant isn't getting enough sunlight, consider using a grow light to supplement its light requirements.
Variations in light exposure also affect leaf size. The more light a philodendron receives (within the bounds of not being scorched, of course!), the larger the leaves will grow. This is one of the key reasons people are drawn to large leaf varieties - to watch their leaves become truly enormous! Observe your plant and adjust its location as needed, but remember that change should happen gradually so it can acclimate.
Watering might seem simple, but it's arguably the most common source of philodendron problems. Overwatering is a surefire way to invite root rot, and underwatering can lead to wilting and stunted growth. The key is balance. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Use your finger to check the soil moisture level; that's the most reliable method.
When you do water, do it thoroughly. Water until you see excess water draining from the pot's drainage holes. This ensures that the entire root ball is adequately hydrated. Never let your philodendron sit in standing water, which can quickly lead to root rot. Empty the saucer beneath the pot after watering to prevent this issue. Consider the pot material too. Terracotta pots dry out more quickly than plastic pots, influencing the watering frequency.
The frequency of watering will vary depending on factors like the plant's size, the pot size and material, the type of soil, the ambient temperature, and the humidity of your environment. During the growing season (spring and summer), your philodendron will likely need more frequent watering. Reduce watering in the fall and winter when the plant's growth slows down. Always adjust your watering schedule based on your specific plant and its environment. Another important aspect is the type of water. Tap water may contain chemicals that aren't ideal; filtered or rainwater is usually preferred.
The right soil is critical for any plant's health, and your large leaf philodendron appreciates a well-draining mix that retains some moisture. A good starting point is a combination of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark. This blend provides good drainage, aeration, and moisture retention - the trifecta of healthy roots.
Repotting is necessary as your philodendron grows and its roots outgrow its current pot. Choose a pot that's slightly larger than the previous one (about an inch or two wider in diameter). Repotting is best done during the growing season (spring and summer) when the plant is actively growing. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen any circling roots, and place it in its new pot with fresh soil. Water thoroughly after repotting.
Signs that your philodendron needs repotting include roots circling the pot, roots growing out of the drainage holes, and the plant drying out quickly. If you see these signs, it's time to give your plant a larger home. Don't go too large, as that can lead to overwatering and root rot. Keep the change incremental for the best results. Repotting also provides a chance to refresh the soil's nutrients.
Even with the best care, problems can arise. Here are some common issues and how to address them:
Don't panic if you see a problem. Observe your plant closely, identify the issue, and adjust your care routine accordingly. Patience and observation are key to becoming a successful philodendron parent.
Large leaf philodendrons thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. A few hours of morning sun followed by bright, indirect light for the rest of the day is ideal. East-facing windows are usually perfect.
Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until excess water drains from the pot's drainage holes. The frequency of watering depends on various factors, but generally, you'll water more during the growing season.
A well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture is ideal. A good combination is potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark. This blend provides good drainage, aeration, and moisture retention for healthy roots.