how to grow and care for heartleaf philodendron
How to Grow and Care for Heartleaf Philodendron
Heartleaf philodendrons are attractive plants that are found in offices and homes across the United States. Along with adding aesthetic appeal to the indoor environment, these houseplants are easy to grow and care for. In this Buzzle article, we will look at some effective heartleaf philodendron care tips and instructions to help the plant to thrive.
Quick Tip
Heartleaf philodendron varieties that have a velvet-like texture to the leaves are not as tolerant of bright sunlight as other hybrids. They are best suited to a shaded area which receives little indirect sunlight. You also need to ensure that the growing area is kept humid and warm.- Light: Filtered or indirect light is best for growing heartleaf philodendrons. Therefore, these plants should be grown indoors, unless you live in an area with a tropical environment. It is best to grow these plants near east- or north-facing windows. If the rooms lighting is good, these plants can survive entirely on artificial lighting.
- Soil: It is best to mix soil with mediums such as peat moss or all-purpose potting mix to keep the substrate loose, but rich in nutrients, because the plant cannot tolerate water logging, and requires a well-draining base. If your plant is of the climbing variety, provide some support, such as a moss stick, for it to grow. If you see yellow or whitish mineral deposits on the surface of the soil, the philodendron will need to be transplanted in new potting soil.
- Watering: Although the soil should not be waterlogged, it is advisable to keep it lightly moist at all times. Outdoor plants should be watered once in two days, while it is alright to water indoor heartleaf plants once in a week. The easiest way to check if your plant needs watering, is to press your finger into the soil. If the soil feels moist and sticks to your finger, you do not need to water it. However, if it feels dry, water it lightly till the soil is wet, but not waterlogged. Watering should increase slightly during dry and hot seasons. Occasionally misting the leaves of a heartleaf philodendron helps in the growth of the plant.
- Ambient Temperature: As long as the plants are kept indoors, and regularly watered, heartleaf philodendrons can survive in high temperatures. However, they react badly if exposed to temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for these plants is between 60 -75 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Fertilizer Application: If you are using liquid fertilizers, you must regularly apply in small amounts every 2-3 weeks. However, while using slow-release pellets or organic manure, applications need to be done once in 6 months. Fertilizers are not needed during winter.
- Deeply water the soil on the day of the re-potting. This makes it easier for you to shift the plant, and reduces any shock the plant might undergo.
- If your plant looks unhealthy, prune the stems and leaves.
- Gently turn the pot upside down while supporting the plant, and get it out without damaging the vine.
- Check the roots for disease, and cut and discard any that are in poor condition.
- Gently work on the root ball to open it. This encourages the growth of new roots.
- Shake off any loose soil on the roots and put it into the new pot, which is filled ¾th with a mix of peat moss, potting soil, and perlite.
- Once again, water the plant well, and monitor it for a few days to ensure its health.
- If the plant is spindly, and if its leaves are few, small, far apart, and pale in color, it is probably getting inadequate light.
- When growing heartleaf philodendrons outside the house, plant them with generous spacing between each sapling as they can grow to large sizes.
- If you keep your potted philodendrons outdoors, bring them in during the winter before the frost sets, to prevent major damage.
- Keep the plant away from small children and animals, as the plant is poisonous if consumed. Also, some people can be allergic to its sap. If ingested, seek medical assistance immediately.
- Use a sponge or paintbrush to clean off any dust that settles on the leaves. This will maintain the glossy look of the plant.
- New stems that you cut off during pruning are good for propagation purposes.
- Empty the plates kept under the pots before a fresh watering session to keep the soil from getting soggy.
- If you notice the tips of the leaves curling up and turning brown, it is very likely that you are using too much fertilizers.