Your Philodendron’s leaves are likely turning white because your soil lacks the nutrients necessary for healthy growth and pigmentation. They could also be whitening as a result of improper lighting, cool temperatures, or fungal infections.

Diagnosing a plant’s condition can be challenging since there are often many potential causes of them. In this article, I’ll explain the various possible reasons for white Philodendron leaves and how to help your plant regain its unique colors.

Four Environmental Reasons for White Philodendron Leaves

So you’ve noticed your Philodendron leaves are starting to turn white. The first thing to look at when diagnosing the problem is the plant’s environment– specifically, its soil, lighting, watering, and temperature.

The Soil Lacks Nutrients

A nutrient deficiency is the number one cause of white leaves on a Philodendron plant. Plants get their nutrients from soil rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. In fact, these elements contribute to the plant’s chlorophyll, so discoloration is a surefire sign that the soil is lacking.

Nitrogen, for example, helps the plant grow vibrant, full foliage, while phosphorus aids the development of the plant’s root system. Potassium, on the other hand, allows the plant to produce fruits and flowers. So, a nutrient deficiency can cause many unwanted problems to your Philodendron, including white leaves.

If your plant is a few years old, it’s natural for the soil to have dried out over time. After all, it can only contain so many nutrients. Before you repot your Philodendron, though, consider the other potential symptoms of nutrient-deficient soil:

• Compact soil that can keep the shape of its container if you remove it
• Stunted growth, less flowering
• Slow leaf unfurling
• Yellow, discolored leaves
• White leaves that are papery and soft to touch

If your Philodendron has more than two symptoms (but most importantly, the compacted soil), it may need to be repotted in fresh, nutrient-rich soil.

When purchasing a potting mix for your Philodendron, keep your eyes peeled for a few key ingredients: all of the nutrients I named above and soil with an acidity level between 6 and 7. They also grow well in organic matter like peat moss.

Fertilizer contains many much-needed nutrients that plants benefit from, so adding fertilizer to new soil will do wonders for your Philodendron.

Too Little Lighting

Philodendrons like shaded, indirect sunlight. Without it, they will wilt, lose color over time, and eventually die. White leaves can result from a Philodendron not getting the light it needs, even filtered.

I remember when I first began my journey as a Philodendron owner. For the life of me, I couldn’t figure out how to determine whether my plant was getting enough light, direct or indirect. It wasn’t until a friend and landscaper told me to remember the cardinal directions to make this determination.

East, West, and South-facing windows will provide the most sunlight throughout the duration of the day. Since the sun rises in the east, east-facing plants will receive a good amount of soft morning sunlight. On the other hand, west-facing plants will soak up the afternoon light and its last rays before sun-down.

South-facing plants will get a ton of light all day long, so they should thrive in the constant sun. In contrast, north-facing plants should be highly shade-tolerant, as they likely won’t get much sun at all from sun-up to sun-down.

With all of that being said, Philodendrons do best in East or West-facing windows, away from the direct, intense rays of the sun. If your plant is in a South or North-facing window, consider moving the plant to a different location in the house.

Additionally, your Philodendron shouldn’t be exposed to direct sunlight in east or west-facing windows, as this can burn the leaves.

Too Little Water

Naturally, too little water will cause discoloration of your Philodendron leaves. Overwatering also causes discoloration, but you’ll notice the stem and leaves turning black instead of white, so examine your watering schedule to see where it needs adjusting.

Philodendron plants thrive off of one thorough soak a week, with the soil drying out almost entirely before its next watering. If you’re soaking your plant less than once a week (once every week and a half, once every two weeks), you may not be giving it enough water to develop strong roots.

Other symptoms of your Philodendron needing more water include:

• Hard, crinkly leaves
• Dehydrated soil
• Stunted growth

An excellent way to check whether your plant requires water is by sticking your index finger at least one inch (two knuckles deep) into the soil. If that one inch is dry, the plant needs a drink.

You can also use the XLux Soil Moisture Sensor Meter (available on Amazon.com) to check the moisture levels of your soil. (I got one for Christmas last year and use it constantly!)

Over time, the soil will get drier and drier between waterings as the plant absorbs its moisture and nutrients. Again, compacted soil is a sign of dry soil that may need to be replaced.

Temperature

Philodendrons grow best in relatively warm climates, so if the weather is getting cold outside or you like to keep your air conditioner on blast, you’ll need to find a way to warm up your plant to prevent further whitening of the leaves.

Don’t worry– you have a few options. First, consider moving your Philodendron indoors if it’s currently growing outdoors. To do this, you’ll have to find a suitably sized container, dig up the plant’s root ball, and repot it in fresh soil. The colder your plant gets, the more likely it is that the leaves will whiten and die.

Second, consider heat and grow lamps to give your Philodendron the extra light and warmth it may need to thrive. I often recommend the Bifrost LED Grow Light for Indoor Plants (available on Amazon.com) because it has adjustable arms and a long shelf life, suitable for any size plant.

They’re an excellent solution for basement apartments and north-facing homes, where dark lighting conditions are dominant.

Third, figure out the hardiness zone of the area you live in. Philodendrons grow best in zones nine to ten; these zones have temperatures between 20 and 40 °F (-6 to 4 °C). Many of the warmer states in America are excellent locations for natural Philodendron. This plant species is commonly found in states like New Mexico, Hawaii, and Texas.

Fungal Infection: Powdery Mildew

Another common reason for your Philodendron’s leaves turning white is a fungal infection– more specifically, powdery mildew.

Powdery mildew is a fungus that forms on a wide variety of plant surfaces. You’ll first notice it as what might resemble white polka dots that grow in size and eventually consume the leaf’s entire surface.

The polka dots will be fuzzy and won’t have defined borders. Carried on the wind, powdery mildew will significantly stunt your Philodendron’s growth if left untreated.

To treat powdery mildew, treat the entire plant with a fungicide. Numerous brands are available at most local nurseries or garden stores. When dealing with any infestation or plant infection, following a couple of steps is essential during treatment.

• Isolate your Philodendron. Powdery mildew can travel from one plant to another on the wind, so isolating your Philodendron is crucial to protect your other plant babies.
• Prune the diseased leaves. While more important for root disease, pruning the infected leaves on your Philodendron is another important step to preventing contamination or persistent infection. Use sterilized scissors that get wiped between each use.
• Treat your plant with a fungicide. Just like there are insecticides for insect infestations, you can purchase a general fungicide spray at any local gardening store. You should thoroughly spray your Philodendron with fungicide and wipe it down as well. Treatment usually lasts one to two weeks.
• Examine your other plants. If you notice powdery mildew on any of your other plants, you can isolate them with your Philodendron. Many people opt to keep isolated plants in one location, like the bathtub or on a closed-in porch.
• Repot the Philodendron in fresh soil. Powdery mildew can also grow on your plant’s soil, so repotting it with fresh soil is the most efficient way to rid your Philodendron of this fungal infection.

Conclusion

To summarize, white Philodendron leaves can happen because of infections or inadequate environmental conditions. Fungal infections like powdery mildew can turn your entire plant white if you don’t treat it; nutrient, water, and sun deficiencies are other common culprits to leaf discoloration.

In particular, Philodendrons thrive off of different nutrients found in soil, so repotting it in new soil will provide the plant with the food it needs. These tips should ensure you and your Philodendron are back on track and thriving.

You may also like:

• Why Are My Philodendron Leaves Turning Black?
• Why Are My Philodendron Leaves Drooping?
• Propagating Philodendron in Water
• Philodendron Leaves Turning Yellow

Sophia

Hi! I’m Sophia, and I love plants – especially an expert in growing house plants. I stay in Chicago, United States of America, and through my blog and social media platforms, provide tips and tricks on how to grow healthy, vibrant plants indoors. Check out more here.

The post Why Are My Philodendron Leaves Turning White [How to Fix] appeared first on HousePlantsInfo.com.

Your Philodendron leaves are probably turning black because of an infection called “leaf spot”, which can quickly kill the plant.  Black leaves usually signify health-related problems, while brown, yellow, and white leaves point to an issue in the philodendron’s environment.

In other words, if your philodendron’s leaves are blackening, death is most likely occurring within the root system. If they’re lightning, the phenomenon is most likely related to soil or watering issues.

The remainder of this article will examine philodendron ailments to color, and what you can do to help your philodendron thrive.

Philodendron Genus

Native to Central America, Philodendrons can grow in warm, shady environments and can be found as close to North America as the Florida coast. Therefore, this plant grows best in an environment with shaded, indirect sunlight and moist soil.

The philodendron genus contains hundreds of different species, all incredibly unique. Some philodendrons are known for their bright green leaves, while others boast splashes of pink, red, and white. The actual leaves also vary in size and shape. Some are very wide; others are narrow and long.

Leaf Discoloration in Philodendron Leaves and What to Do About It

Despite the variety of colors on any philodendron plant, certain shades indicate illness.

Black Philodendron Leaves

For example, black leaves on a philodendron point to a bacterial infection in the plant’s root system called “leaf spot”. It presents as polka-dot type marks on the leaf that starts off brown. Gradually, the brown spots blacken, spread across the leaf’s surface, and kill the leaf before moving on to the next.

How to treat: since this infection can spread quickly, the best way to treat the plant is by removing the infected leaf. Use a clean, sharp pair of scissors to prune it at the base, ensuring that the plant isn’t close to others to avoid contagion.

Yellow to Brown Philodendron Leaves

Suppose your Philodendron transforms from yellow to brown or develops brown, wilted spots. In that case, you are likely overwatering it (or not watering it enough). Philodendrons are a tropical species growing in humid climates such as those of Hawaii, where moist (but not oversaturated) soil is expected; if the plant is overwatered, the roots will get soggy and turn brown, eventually rotting the whole leaf. This is called root rot.

How to treat: Similar to leaf spots, it’s essential to prune the plant of affected leaves. Another additional step is removing the plant and looking at the roots. Root rot will make the root ball a brown, mushy mess instead of its usual white system – prune away the infected roots before repotting the plant in fresh soil and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

White Philodendron Leaves

If you notice your philodendron leaves turning white, there are a few possible causes. The plant could be missing essential nutrients that are found in healthy soil. Alternatively, overexposure to sunlight could give your Philodendron the plant equivalent of a sunburn.

Since these plants thrive in dappled sunlight, shaded along forest floors and tree trunks, too much sunlight can damage the leaf and turn it white, sometimes transparent. The white leaf will eventually dry up and turn brown if not removed to an area with indirect sunlight.

How to treat: If you catch sun damage early enough, moving your plant to a different location that receives light indirectly can help it regain its color. Ideally, you should relocate the plant as soon as you notice the philodendrons’ color fading.

However, there isn’t always treatment for a sunburnt leaf – if it can’t spring back, the plant will focus its energy on creating new growth.

Philodendron Growing Tips

While there are over four hundred philodendron species, there are a few general growing tips to help maintain your plant’s healthy look.

Providing Indirect Sunlight

This genus, as previously mentioned, grows best in tropical heat and is often shaded by bigger plants; this type of lighting is called indirect lighting. Therefore, be sure to place your plant in an area of your home that gets brightly lit during the day, but does not directly expose the plant to the sun’s rays, where it could burn.

Choosing the Right Soil

As with most other house plants, philodendrons cannot tolerate too wet or dry soil. Choose a pot with accessible drainage (like one with a drainage hole and a tray) to make sure the roots don’t rot in excess water.

You’ll also want to ensure not to water your Philodendron more than once a week while letting the soil dry up between waterings.

A good rule of thumb is to stick your finger one knuckle deep into the soil – if it comes out dry, the soil needs some hydration.

Another simple solution is to use a moisture meter. The meter is placed into the soil and will indicate the soil’s condition: either dry, moist, or wet. This tool comes in handy when first determining an appropriate plant watering schedule.

Philodendron soil should also be loose and nutrient-rich. Nitrogen and phosphorus are essential nutrients for this plant to grow large, healthy leaves.

Determining Whether Your Philodendron Is a Vine or Not

Another simple but helpful growing tip is to determine whether your Philodendron is a vine or not. Many species in this genus are, meaning they do best when they have something to climb on.

Before I started buying Feitore Stackable Plant Trellis (available on Amazon), my philodendron vines were reaching up towards my window’s curtain rod, hoping to curl around it. The stackable feature gives the vines lots of space to climb while keeping the plant away from the furniture.

If you don’t have a trellis, don’t sweat it. Some vines need to climb, otherwise, they’ll die. Philodendron vines, however, don’t need to climb, even though they’ll want to.

If they have nothing to climb on, these vines will simply grow down the sides of their container, which makes for great plants to hang from the ceiling. Hanging baskets or macrame hangers are perfect for a philodendron vine!

I especially like macrame hangers because they can accommodate many different sizes of pots or baskets, and are chic and modern alternatives to plastic baskets. If they’re durable enough, macrame hangers can even hold a pot with a drainage tray, which is excellent to prevent root rot.

Some other hanging options include hooks for the wall or ones that attach to the rim of your basket.

Pruning Your Philodendron

Pruning your plant isn’t only something to do when parts of it are diseased. Regularly pruning your philodendron will help stimulate leaf production and give the plant a bushier look.

When pruning, always make sure to use clean, sharp scissors; it’s good practice to disinfect your shears after each use. This is important because dull, dirty shears can damage the plant and encourage insect infestation.

Moreover, dirty shears carry bacteria that can potentially make your plants sick. If one of your plants is sick and its disease gets transferred to another plant through unclean tools, you may end up needing to play doctor for each one!

To summarize, the discoloration of your philodendron plant signifies a serious problem. The first step in treating it is assessing the sick plant and identifying what it needs. You can do this by remembering what ailment each color points to.

• Black: Black leaves usually suffer from a bacterial infection called leaf spot, which will eventually kill the plant if left untreated.
• Yellow or Brown: Yellow or brown leaves indicate a poor watering schedule. You may be watering your philodendron either too often or not enough.
• White: White leaves signify excess sunlight and are the plant’s equivalent to sunburn!

After you’ve evaluated your plant, assess its environment and watering schedule. Make adjustments as necessary. Philodendrons like bright, indirect sunlight, nutrient-rich soil, weekly waterings, pot drainage, and occasional pruning!

It’s essential to research any plant you bring home to make sure you’re helping it grow in the right environment. Philodendrons are easy to care for but will still die if neglected.

Owning the proper tools will help make caring for your plant easier. Some useful tools include climbers for philodendron vines, hanging baskets, and moisture meters to check the moisture level of your plant’s soil.

You may also want to invest in a good pair of gardening or pruning shears; remember, just as surgeons use sterilized tools, it’s best to prune your philodendron with sharp, clean shears.

Conclusion

Gaining experience with a new type of plant is both exciting and a little intimidating! With these tips in mind, caring for your philodendron – even when it’s sick – should help to ease your plant-growing journey, making it remarkably more fulfilling and smooth-running.

You may also like:

• Why Are My Philodendron Leaves Turning White?
• Why Are My Philodendron Leaves Falling off?
• Why Are My Philodendron Leaves Drooping?
• Split Leaf Philodendron Soil

Sophia

Hi! I’m Sophia, and I love plants – especially an expert in growing house plants. I stay in Chicago, United States of America, and through my blog and social media platforms, provide tips and tricks on how to grow healthy, vibrant plants indoors. Check out more here.

The post Why Are My Philodendron Leaves Turning Black? [Why & What to Do] appeared first on HousePlantsInfo.com.

Your philodendron leaves are falling off due to a number of reasons, such as improper watering, insufficient access to light, and pest infestation. Proper philodendron upkeep is crucial to keeping your philodendron in perfect shape.

In the rest of this article, I’ll discuss some of the most common causes of philodendron leaf loss and how to solve these problems so the leaves stay attached and healthy. Furthermore, I’ll provide some philodendron growing tips to ensure your beloved plant thrives and stays healthy.

How to Prevent Philodendron Leaf Loss

If your philodendron’s leaves are falling off, this is a sign that your plant is unhealthy and might probably die if you don’t take quick action. Philodendron leaves are typically bright and lush, so anything to the contrary is a warning sign.

Many factors contribute to the growth of a healthy philodendron, so there are many possible explanations for your leaf loss. Let’s take a look at a few causes of leaf loss and how to solve them.

1. Overwatering

Philodendrons are sensitive to overwatering, and they are more likely to die because of too much water than they are from underwatering. If the soil is too wet, the roots won’t have enough oxygen and will start to suffocate. This is detrimental to the entire plant, and the leaves will start to fall off as the plant begins to die. 

In addition to leaf loss, other signs of overwatering include:

• Brown spots on the leaves
• Mushy roots
• A rotting odor
• Soil that is wet and soggy

If you notice these conditions and think overwatering is the cause of your leaf loss, stop watering your plant immediately. You should also check the roots and remove any that are mushy and appear diseased.

Place your plant in a dry, aerated place. Your goal is to accelerate moisture loss, so you want to dry the soil out quickly. However, you should avoid placing your philodendron in direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves.

Philodendrons can grow year-round in the United States Department of Agriculture zones nine through eleven. However, they may struggle in more humid places, such as parts of Florida, Mississippi, or Louisiana, because the air will contribute to overwatering the plant. 

You should avoid watering your philodendron for a week after repotting. Then, water once a week through the spring and summer and once every three weeks in the winter. You should let the soil dry out between waterings; otherwise, you risk mushy roots and falling leaves.

2. Underwatering

To prevent leaf loss, you must be careful to avoid overwatering your philodendron. However, underwatering can also be another cause of leaf loss in your philodendron. If your plant doesn’t receive enough water, the leaves will start to turn dry, crispy, and wilted, eventually falling off. 

If you notice signs that your philodendron is dehydrated, you should soak it by placing it in three inches of room temperature water in your sink. Leave the plant in the water for approximately forty-five minutes and return it to its original spot or pot.

After soak-watering, you’re in danger of swinging the pendulum too far and harming your plant by overwatering. It would help if you waited to water again until the top two inches of the soil are completely dry or use a moisture meter and water when the soil is 50-75% dry.

My favorite moisture meter is the XLUX Soil Moisture Meter from Amazon. This meter is reliable, accurate, and easy to read, thanks to the large and clear dial. There’s also only a single probe, which means you dig up less soil every time you measure the soil. Finally, it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. 

3. Not Enough Light

Philodendrons shouldn’t be put in direct sunlight because this could burn the leaves, but this doesn’t mean they don’t need light altogether. While philodendrons can survive in low-light environments, such conditions aren’t ideal for the optimum growth and health of the plants.

You should grow your philodendrons in medium light for the best results and sturdiest leaves.  

Soil doesn’t dry as quickly in low light conditions, which can then cause root rot and the loss of leaves. Additionally, like most plants, philodendrons need sunlight to perform photosynthesis, which contributes to the overall health and well-being of the plant.

Here are my tips for how to ensure your philodendron is getting the appropriate amount of light:

• If your philodendron is planted outside, plant it underneath a tree
• Pay attention to where the sun falls in your home at midday and in the afternoon, when the sun is at its strongest
• Keep your philodendron away from windows during the winter and on windy days

If you live in an area that doesn’t get a lot of light or you’re experiencing a dark winter, you should consider purchasing artificial lights to help promote growth.

I recommend the GooingTop LED Grow Light from Amazon.com because the red and white LEDs are similar to sunlight at noon, and the product was designed for indoor garden plants. There’s also a convenient timer setting, so you can program the light to turn on and off without having to do it yourself.   

4. Pests

Philodendrons are susceptible to attacks from various pests, including:

• Scales
• Spider mites
• Aphids
• Mealybugs

These pests interfere with the plant’s growth and often lead to serious health issues that can lead to plant death, especially if not contained early enough.

Pests thrive in damp environments, so to prevent pests, ensure that your soil is well-draining and that your plant is getting enough sunlight. Furthermore, check on any surrounding plants regularly, as pests can move amongst plants in a group and infest them all.

Some pests are visible, so you can hand-pick them as you see them. You can also wash your plant under running room-temperature water to get rid of them.

Another option is to use a pesticide. I like Wondercide Indoor Pest Control Spray from Amazon because not only does it repel pests, but it is also pet-safe. This product uses natural essential oils, so it is a safer and more natural alternative than other pesticides full of potentially harmful chemicals.      

Philodendron Growing Tips

Consistent and proper philodendron maintenance is one of the best ways to ensure that your plant’s leaves stay healthy, sturdy, and attached to the stem. Here are some of my best recommendations for how to care for your philodendron:

• Plant philodendrons with drainage holes. I like this Self Watering Plant Pot from Amazon because the legs of the plant allow the soil to draw moisture and keep the plant lifted above the water, which prevents overwatering. The pots also come with a clip-on watering attachment that makes watering easier.
• Prune regularly. Pruning helps encourage growth, so cut away all dead leaves consistently.
• Use well-draining soil mixed with sand. To prevent overwatering, you’ll need soil that drains well. You can also mix in some sand to prevent root rot.
• Fertilize once a month. If your leaves start turning pale, chances are your philodendron is not getting enough calcium and magnesium. This Aquatic Arts Philodendron Fertilizer is specifically designed for philodendron health and enhances (and fastens) the growth process. Furthermore, the eight-ounce bottle will last approximately a year, so you don’t have to worry about repeatedly buying it.  
• Repot as necessary. Philodendrons can grow to be quite large, so you’ll need to adjust the size of their container as needed.
• Place your philodendron near a window. Your plant will need enough sunlight, but it needs to be indirect. A window that receives sufficient sunlight is an ideal location.
• Keep your plant away from air conditioning vents. Philodendrons do not do well in cool weather, so if they are exposed to the cold draft of air conditioning, they could suffer. 
• Water your plant once a week. Philodendrons do well with thorough watering once a week. You should also let the soil dry out between waterings. If you feel the soil after a week and it still feels damp to the touch, don’t water it until the soil feels dry.
• Propagate your plant. Use sharp garden clippers to cut off parts of the stem and plant it in three inches of moist soil. Propagating helps you control the size of your philodendron because they can grow quite large if left uncontrolled.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your philodendron stays as healthy and beautiful as possible.  

Conclusion

Philodendrons are gorgeous plants largely thanks to their big and beautiful leaves. Therefore, if your leaves start to fall off, you may not enjoy the appearance of your plant as much. Numerous issues can contribute to this problem, including improper watering, insufficient access to light, and pest infestation. Luckily, proper plant care and maintenance can prevent these problems.

You may also like:

• Philodendron White Measure vs. Birkin
• Why Are My Philodendron Leaves Drooping?
• Propagating Philodendron in Water

Sophia

Hi! I’m Sophia, and I love plants – especially an expert in growing house plants. I stay in Chicago, United States of America, and through my blog and social media platforms, provide tips and tricks on how to grow healthy, vibrant plants indoors. Check out more here.

The post Why Are My Philodendron Leaves Falling off? appeared first on HousePlantsInfo.com.

If your philodendron leaves are drooping, it means there’s something wrong with the plant– either in its roots or in its environment.

Your philodendron leaves are drooping due to plant shock, an unsuitable environment, or a pest infestation. Plant shock and an unsuitable environment are the most common reasons for your philodendron leaves to droop. An unsuitable environment may include poor watering, lighting, or drainage.

This plant genus is pretty resilient, so if it’s showing signs of deterioration and death, you should first look at whether it’s been injured, and then at its environment. As you continue to read, you’ll learn more about how to build a climate your philodendron will thrive and how to help it recover its liveliness.

Three Possible Causes for Philodendron Leaf Drooping

As I mentioned, there are three possible causes for a philodendron to have drooping leaves: it’s either experiencing shock (which is common after a transplant or accidental damage), or the environment it’s in isn’t suitable for the plant’s growth. Let’s take an in-depth look at both.

1. Transplant Shock, Injury, or Stress

Suppose you’ve recently moved homes and your philodendron got knocked around in the moving truck. Or, if you’re anything like me, you’ve got a rowdy dog (or a playful cat) that has knocked your plant over one too many times.

When plants experience an injury, they can go through stress, sometimes resulting in overall stunted growth and, thus–drooping leaves.

Along with sad-looking leaves, you might notice a few other signs that can point to plant shock, such as shriveled leaves or a soft, spongy stem. Additionally, if any part of the plant has been broken, torn, or cut- that can trigger plant shock.

Transplant shock happens when you repot a plant. If you’ve recently done so with your philodendron, it’ll need time to acclimatize. Otherwise, if you think your plant is experiencing shock, make sure to follow its watering schedule because consistent water will help the plant strengthen its roots to overcome the injury.

2. Unsuitable Environment

If your philodendron hasn’t experienced anything traumatic lately, it’s time to look at the plant’s environment. There are a few areas to focus on first, such as lighting, watering, soil conditions, and temperature. I’ll discuss these more in-depth in the following sections.

The Plant Has Too Much or Too Little Lighting

Philodendrons both need and adore sunlight, but the direct beating sun is often too intense. Instead, this species prefers filtered sunlight hidden within the shade of taller canopies. So, philodendrons will grow healthily in bright, indirect light.

Which direction is your plant facing? A general rule of thumb is that east, west, and south-facing plants will get the most sunlight while north-facing plants get the least.

However, west and south-facing plants will get strong and direct light, which is too harsh for Philodendrons to thrive in. Consider placing your plant in an east-facing window where the sun is softer.

If your philodendron isn’t getting enough light, it’ll be leggy– meaning there will be lots of space between each individual leaf. If it’s getting too much light, the leaves will get the equivalent of a sunburn– they’ll dry up and turn from green to yellow, to brown.

The Plant Is Over or Under Watered

For most plants, and especially philodendrons, soggy, oversaturated soil can lead to a root disease called root rot. The roots decay from being overwatered, and the decay eventually consumes the entire plant from the bottom up.

Philodendrons prefer moist soil, and you should allow them to dry almost completely before watering again.

If you’re concerned about root rot, look for a black stem and wilting leaves. To take it a step further, you can examine the plant’s root ball– if the typically white roots are brown or black, your philodendron is experiencing root rot.

Being under-watered is just as bad as being over-watered. The signs of an under-watered plant are wilted discolored leaves and general stunted growth. It may take much longer for your philodendron to put out new growth if it’s not getting enough water to maintain its root system.

This plant species requires one thorough watering a week.

The Plant Is Too Warm or Too Cold

Philodendrons grow best in temperate regions or, at the very least, in moderately warm environments. Typically, they thrive in hardiness zones nine to ten, approximately 20°F to 40°F (-6.7°C to 4.4°C). Many states, such as Florida, Texas, and Louisiana, are ideal temperatures for philodendrons to grow.

If you live in a cold region or you prefer to keep your house temperature lower, there are warming lights you can purchase to keep your philodendron comfortable. The Industrial Performance Heat Lamp Light Bulbs (available on Amazon.com) are the best bang for your buck, as they come in a pack of twelve.

Simply screw them into a desk lamp for smaller plants or a standing one such as the Anten Tree Floor Lamp (available on Amazon.com), and let the lights do the rest!

3. Pest Infestation

Finally, your philodendron could be infested with pests, which can quickly cause plant death if not taken care of as soon as possible. Some common insects that cause damage to the plant are thrips, mealybugs, and aphids.

If your philodendron’s leaves are drooping and yellowing, you must inspect it for pests.

If you find that insects are the problem, there are a number of steps you should follow to help it recover:

• Isolate the plant from your other house plants. Insects will travel to nearby plants if given the opportunity. For this reason, moving the infested plant is essential until it’s been treated. The bathtub is a great place to keep the philodendron during treatment.
• Prune away the diseased leaves. Once the philodendron is on its own, you must prune away all of the diseased parts of the plant. Make sure to use a sterilized pair of scissors and wipe the scissors with a cloth in between pruning.
• Give the plant a wash with insecticidal soap. Non-toxic insecticidal soaps and neem oils are the most popular products to use on the infected philodendron. Bonide Captain Jack’s Neem Oil (available on Amazon.com) is effective at treating most pest infestations.

Ways To Make Your Philodendron Happy

There are nearly five hundred philodendron species in this plant family, so it would be impossible to name all of the different environments they thrive in. Regardless, the following tips are an umbrella overview of general philodendron care:

• Prune semi-regularly. When you prune your philodendron, the excess energy that would have been used for the pruned leaf gets redirected to produce more growth. Therefore, you’re constantly encouraging the plant to put out new leaves by pruning semi-regularly.
• Water once a week. Most philodendrons enjoy a thorough soak once a week. They don’t like soggy soil, which makes them susceptible to root rot, among other diseases. Misting their leaves is also a good idea.
• Provide a trellis. Some philodendrons are climbing vines and enjoy having something to reach for. A ladder or a pot trellis can do wonders for your wandering plant! The Another Garden Trellis (available on Amazon.com) is a reliable option that I’ve used with many of my climbing plants.
• Use fertilizer once a month. With fertilized soil, philodendrons will consume rich nutrients, which will promote successful, healthy growth. Mulch (decaying leaves) or compost can be added to the soil as fertilizer, as well.
• Avoid direct sunlight. Philodendrons love dappled light, so in general– avoid putting your plant in direct sunlight. Instead, place it in a bright, east-facing room where it’ll receive soft light from the morning sun.
• Ensure your philodendron pot has a drainage hole. For those plants living in containers versus outdoors, ensure their pot has a proper drainage hole. Philodendron pots without drainage holes are more likely to sit in wet soil and develop root issues. If it’s outdoors, you must make sure the ground it’s planted in has good drainage.
• Repot your plant as necessary. As your philodendron grows, it may need bigger and bigger-sized containers. Make sure that you’re repotting your plant as needed. The plant won’t produce much growth if it’s in a pot that is too small. So, if you’ve got a large plant that’s stopped growing in an inappropriately sized pot, it’s time to move homes.
• Mark it on the calendar. If you have trouble remembering when you last watered your philodendron, mark it on the calendar and make a habit of checking it daily. An easy solution is to make plant watering a chore for a specific day of the week. I like to water my plants on Wednesdays, just because!

Conclusion

Your philodendron might have drooping leaves for a few reasons, such as transplant shock or poor watering, lighting, and temperature conditions. Pests could also cause drooping leaves, so to help the plant recover, thoroughly examine all of these possibilities and determine the appropriate solution.

With the proper recovery strategies and future care, your philodendron should grow successfully and happily!

You may like the following articles:

• Why Are My Philodendron Leaves Falling off
• Split Leaf Philodendron Soil
• Propagating Philodendron in Water
• Philodendron Leaves Turning Yellow

Sophia

Hi! I’m Sophia, and I love plants – especially an expert in growing house plants. I stay in Chicago, United States of America, and through my blog and social media platforms, provide tips and tricks on how to grow healthy, vibrant plants indoors. Check out more here.

The post Why Are My Philodendron Leaves Drooping? appeared first on HousePlantsInfo.com.

The Split Leaf Philodendron, also known as Philodendron Selloum, is no exception because it needs suitable soil to thrive. Your Philodendron’s potting mix should be loose, fast-draining, and rich with organic matter. It should hold in moisture without retaining excess water.

We will discuss what to look for in good quality soil, so your Split Leaf Philodendron is always healthy and happy. We will also discuss the different soil amendments you can use, how often you should repot, and how to store your potting mix to minimize wastage properly. Let’s start!

The Best Kind of Soil for Split Leaf Philodendrons

The best soil for your Split Leaf Philodendron is fast-draining and loose. It should contain soil amendments to help improve its physical attributes. Your Split Leaf Philodendron will grow bigger and lusher quicker if you provide it with the best possible soil. Your main goal in choosing the best soil for your plant is to provide a suitable environment for the roots.

Soil amendments affect soil quality by enhancing these essential factors:

• Porosity. The more porous soil is, the better it can provide water and oxygen for your plants.
• Permeability. This attribute refers to how well water and oxygen can move through the soil.
• Drainage. Good drainage should allow water to move through and out of the soil primarily because of the natural force of gravity.
• Aeration. Compact soil isn’t good for plants. Good aeration addresses this by oxidizing the soil and allowing water and nutrients to penetrate deeper into the pot, thus allowing roots to take in as much as they need.
• Rooting depth. The more plants’ roots can grow deeper in the soil, the better they can absorb water and essential nutrients.

You can separate soil amendments into two categories – organic and inorganic. Organic soil amendments are essentially objects that used to be classified as living things and naturally occurring in nature. On the other hand, inorganic amendments are man-made or mined.

Here are some of the best organic soil amendments you could use:

• Coco peat
• Coco chips
• Sphagnum moss
• Wood chips
• Orchid bark
• Grass clippings
• Wood ash
• Sawdust
• Compost
• Manure
• Straw.

Here are some of the best inorganic soil amendments you might want to consider:

• Perlite
• Vermiculite
• Pea Gravel
• Sand.

Are Soil Amendments Fertilizers?

Soil amendments are not fertilizers. They are organic or inorganic matter added to the soil to improve its quality and physical attributes, indirectly affecting the growth of plants. On the other hand, fertilizers are substances that add nutrients to the soil, directly affecting how plants grow.

Soil amendments can make the difference between a philodendron plant surviving and thriving.

How To Tell if Your Soil Is Perfect for Your Split Leaf Philodendron

A good potting mix is essential in keeping your Split Leaf Philodendron healthy and happy. If your soil can’t provide it with the oxygen, water, and nutrients it needs, it may not be able to develop those large, fenestrated leaves that people love so much. A thriving Split Leaf Philodendron calls for proper care and good-quality soil.

Here are some clues indicating that your soil is perfect for your Split Leaf Philodendron:

• Consistent growth
• New leaves are the same sized, if not bigger, than the older ones
• Potting mix is fluffy, light, and airy
• Able to retain moisture
• Excess water immediately pours out from the drainage holes
• The water doesn’t pool on the surface.

Telltale Signs That Your Soil Is Bad for Your Split Leaf Philodendron

Sometimes, plants send signals to tell us that something is not going well for them. The key is to familiarize yourself with your plants to identify subtle changes and react quickly. Acting fast to address these issues will do wonders for your plants.

Here are some signs that you might need to change your Split Leaf Philodendron’s soil:

• Stunted growth.
• No new growth.
• Distorted growth on the new leaves.
• Discoloration.
• Your plant wilts a day or two after watering.
• Water pooling on the surface rather than getting absorbed by the soil.
• Excess water escaping from the drainage holes takes longer than usual to flow out.
• The soil is hard, compact, and clumpy.
• The soil has a foul odor.
• Insect infestation in the soil.
• Moldy soil.

How Often Should You Change the Soil in Your Potted Plants’ Pots?

You should change the soil in your potted plants every 12-18 months. You don’t have to wait for the soil to go bad before you change it. Remember that your plants utilize the soil for water, oxygen, and nutrient absorption, so it is best to provide a good-quality potting mix.

Change the soil in the springtime because plants enjoy the most sunshine this season. Lots of sun encourages growth, both in the leaves and the roots. Your plants can get over the shock sooner and transition better if they are at their strongest.

How To Change Your Split Leaf Philodendron’s Soil

Changing the soil of any potted plant can be tricky, especially if it’s a large specimen like a Split Leaf Philodendron. You have to be extra careful about snapping leaves and stems in half. You also have to ensure that the transition is seamless, so your plant doesn’t suffer from unnecessary stress.

Here are some clear signs that it’s about time you change your Philodendron’s soil:

Root Overload

If you see roots coming out of the drainage holes, it means your plant needs some fresh soil. Sometimes, the roots might even start pushing the plant up and out of the pot. In this case, consider moving it to a bigger pot, at least 2-4 inches bigger than the current one. This change will give it the extra room it craves to grow.

Slow Growth

You should know how fast your plant produces new leaves. If there’s a little slack in the routine, it might mean that the soil can no longer provide what it needs. If your Split Leaf Philodendron growth inexplicably slows down, it might be due to a lack of proper nutrition. Without essential minerals and nutrients, it won’t have the energy to produce new growth.

Top-Heavy and Unstable

Your Split Leaf Philodendron may have grown substantially so that its leaves are about three times the size of its pot. If your plant has grown top-heavy so that it starts to tilt at the slightest movement, then it’s clear that it needs new soil plus a bigger pot. Delaying repotting might result in stunted and deformed growth.

It’s Been a Year

If it’s been a year since you last changed your Split Leaf Philodendron’s soil, then it’s about time you do. It doesn’t matter if the soil still looks good or if it doesn’t smell foul at all. Giving your plant fresh new soil will allow it to absorb even more nutrients, water, and oxygen. This step is crucial at this point when it is actively growing.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on changing the soil of your potted Split Leaf Philodendron:

Materials needed:

• New pot (cleaned and sanitized) with drainage holes
• Plastic or rubber mat
• A watering can, filled with rainwater or filtered water
• Gloves
• Trowel
• Lava rocks or decorative pebbles (optional)
• Fresh potting mix.

Process:

1. Put on your gloves. This step is necessary because Philodendrons sometimes secrete a sap that may irritate your skin.
2. Turn your Split Leaf Philodendron on its side. Hold on to the pot and the stem, then gently tap and tug until you feel the plant loosening its hold on the pot.
3. Pull out your Split Leaf Philodendron from its pot. Be very gentle to avoid damaging leaves and roots.
4. Clean the roots. Get rid of as much soil from the roots. You may use your gloved hands or clean the roots under running water.
5. Prune the roots. Get rid of mushy roots since these will rot in the new potting mix.
6. Pour a layer of fresh potting soil into the new pot. Use your trowel. Do not pack the soil into the pot because your Split Leaf Philodendron won’t appreciate dense soil.
7. Position your plant inside the new pot. Make sure it’s at the center to avoid it tipping over.
8. Add more potting mix to the pot. Make sure that you tuck your plant securely into the soil. Leave about an inch of space from the top of the pot.
9. Add the lava rocks or decorative pebbles if you wish. These will give your Split Leaf Philodendron a new, fresher look!
10. Water your plant thoroughly. Wash the stems and leaves to get rid of any soil that may have stuck. Water until the excess liquid flows out from the drainage holes.
11. Place your newly repotted Split Leaf Philodendron in a sunny, well-ventilated area. It would be best to put it back in its original location to minimize stress on the plant.

How To Properly Store Potting Soil

Storing your potting mix isn’t as simple as closing the bag it came with and dumping it in the corner of your shed or garage. It would be best to store your potting mix properly so you can use it for longer and ensure it is in top form for your plants. Throwing out soil that has gone bad is a waste, so proper storage will help you save money, too.

Here is how to properly store your potting soil (if you have already opened the bag ):

1. Pour the contents into a resealable opaque plastic container.
2. Seal the container, making sure there are no holes or gaps through which insects might be able to crawl.
3. Store the container in a cool and dry area that you will not expose to the elements.

Storing your potting mix can be tricky if you live in areas with harsh winters like Minneapolis and Boston. Keep your sealed container away from snow and powerful winds since moisture might seep in. Moisture will encourage the growth of molds and render your potting mix practically useless.

Key Takeaways

Split Leaf Philodendrons are easy-care plants that can practically thrive in neglect. The right potting mix is the secret to growing lush Philodendrons because they absorb water, oxygen, and nutrients through their roots before distributing these to their leaves and stems. All you need to do is provide them with good-quality soil, sufficient sunlight, and adequate water, and you’re all set.

You may also like:

• Split-Leaf Philodendron Propagation
• Leaf Spot Disease Philodendron

Sophia

Hi! I’m Sophia, and I love plants – especially an expert in growing house plants. I stay in Chicago, United States of America, and through my blog and social media platforms, provide tips and tricks on how to grow healthy, vibrant plants indoors. Check out more here.

The post Split Leaf Philodendron Soil appeared first on HousePlantsInfo.com.

To propagate your philodendron, you’ll want to choose a stem that has many nodes to take the cutting from. Add the branch into a glass of water, ensuring the nodes are entirely immersed in water. Then place the jar in indirect sunlight and wait for the roots to grow.

Growing a philodendron is a great way to have a living piece of green art in your home all year round. They’re an attractive and fun-to-grow plant. Philodendron propagation is incredibly simple, and the results are so rewarding – you just need to know how to do it.

How Do You Grow Philodendrons in Water?

Do you have a philodendron that’s grown too tall, but you don’t want to cut it down? Propagation is a way to reproduce your plant. A healthy philodendron will grow roots in the water, giving you a new, smaller plant within just a few months.

The easiest way to grow your philodendron in water is to take stem cuttings from a mature plant. Place the cutting in a water container, ensuring its nodes are submerged. You’ll have to wait patiently for new roots to appear before you can transplant the new philodendron to a permanent home.

Propagating a mature plant is easy and can be done using two primary methods:

• Stem cuttings
• Leaf cuttings

Both methods are similar, but stem cuttings produce more robust new plants than leaf cuttings, making them the preferred method for larger plants like a philodendron.

Here are some steps to help your propagation journey:

1. Take cuttings from your mature philodendron.
2. Fill a jar with water.
3. Put your cutting in the jar.
4. Carefully place your propagated philodendron.

Let’s look at these steps in more detail below.

1. Take Cuttings From Your Mature Philodendron

For this process, you’ll need a pair of garden scissors such as Ventool Rachet Pruning Shears from Amazon. Make sure you disinfect your scissors, as this will prevent bacteria transmission to the plant, giving your new plant the best chance to survive.

The most crucial step in propagation is cutting. If you cut the incorrect section, the plant will not be able to reproduce.

Plant nodes initiate the development of roots during the propagation process. Therefore, cutting in between the nodes is vital. The cutting must be carried out carefully, considering the node’s location on your philodendron’s stem.

Make sure your cutting has two nodes; one is to be snipped off its leaves and immersed in water, and the other must be left untouched, with one or two leaves attached.

Philodendron propagation in water is relatively simple, but you should still be gentle. Don’t make an incision right next to the nodes. Give the nodes at least a half-inch space, and then start to cut.

2. Fill a Jar With Water

Your jar or container size will depend on how big your cutting is. You’ll need the node of your philodendron to be fully submerged in water, so make sure that the size is relative to your cutting.

You’ll need to fill your jar with room-temperature water. If the water is too cold or too warm, it could shock the stem, limiting the success of the propagation process.

3. Put Your Cutting in the Jar

Upon placing the stem into the jar of water, be sure that the node is completely submerged in water. The roots of your new plant will begin to grow out of the node, making it imperative that it’s submerged at all times.

After a few days, you’ll notice that the jar’s water will have considerably decreased. This is a healthy sign and means your plant is feeding from the nutrition in the water and the propagation process is underway. 

That being said, it’s essential to check the water levels of the jar regularly. Using fresh water weekly gives your plant the best chance of being healthy. Changing the water once a week ensures better development of the plant’s roots during the process.

Propagation is a great way to save your philodendron if it’s had too much sun or if there isn’t an adequate amount of humidity in your home. The process is straightforward and effective. Once a stem has been cut and placed into water, it begins to root fairly quickly. In no time, you’ll have a new plant to grow!

4. Carefully Place Your Propagated Philodendron

If you live somewhere warm, like Arizona, the best time to propagate a plant is in the spring or summer. The philodendron is a tropical plant that enjoys warm temperatures and humidity from warmer California-like seasons in its natural form. This is no exception during the propagation process.

You can keep your plant in a room, but no direct sunlight should fall on the philodendron leaves. Total sunlight exposure will burn the leaves and may affect the propagation process.

Be sure to place your philodendron in a bright area with plenty of indirect sunlight, providing a decent amount of warmth.

How Long Does It Take Philodendron Roots To Grow in Water?

If you decide to propagate your philodendron, you might want to know how long it takes for roots to grow in water.

Philodendron roots take two to three weeks to grow in water before they are ready to be transplanted into soil. Plants have specific habits that influence their ability to develop new roots; putting them in bright indirect sunlight gives ideal circumstances for a quick start.

The process of propagation requires patience. For some, waiting for roots to grow may feel lengthy.

Encouraging Roots To Grow Quicker

Your philodendron will grow its roots using water as its primary source of nutrients. However, this can be a lengthy process.

Suppose you’re eager to plant your new philodendron as soon as possible. In that case, you can also use a water-soluble fertilizer like Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Plant Food from Amazon. This will support the roots’ optimal growth and your philodendron’s survival in unfavorable conditions. With this plant food, roots could only take up to 10 days to grow.

While fertilizing your propagated philodendron, be sure to use the same caution you would fertilizing soil-grown philodendrons. Overfeeding the plant will result in burning the roots and a more extended period of growth. Remember: when it comes to fertilizer, more is not necessarily better.

Ultimately, ensuring the plant has the necessary conditions for growth and selecting the proper cutting from the start of the propagating process will determine how long the roots will take to grow.

When You Should Move Your Philodendron From Water to Soil

If you’re ready to bring your houseplant out of its infancy, the time has come to switch from water to soil.

When the roots are 1-4 inches (2.54 – 10.16 cm) long, you can get ready to start potting your new plant. However, you can wait until the roots are longer, as long as you ensure there is always enough water in your philodendron’s vessel.

When potting your propagated philodendron in soil, it’s vital to maintain a balance of humidity, air circulation, and moisture. This will ensure your plant has the best chance to flourish. Using a pot with drainage holes is critical.

Here are some steps to help you repot your propagated philodendron:

1. Fill a pot that has drainage holes with good-quality soil. Place soil in the first 1-2 inches (2.54-5.08 cm) of the pot.
2. Take your rooted philodendron out of the jar of water. Thoroughly rinse it with clean water that is at room temperature.
3. Put the cutting into the pot, ensuring you cover its roots with soil. Don’t fill the pot with soil to the brim. Allow for at least an inch of space.
4. Water the plant. Water your plant until you see water seeping out of the drainage holes.
5. Set your new baby plant on a windowsill that provides indirect sunlight. Be sure it receives enough indirect sunlight throughout the day while avoiding direct sunlight as much as possible.

Your philodendron will grow in water as long as the water inside its vessel is replaced weekly. Still, at some point, it needs to be transitioned from its aquatic life to one on land. If you’ve been caring for your philodendron well, you should have no trouble getting it through this transition.

Summary

Growing a philodendron in water takes little time, equipment, or cost. With just a little time and a willingness to care, you should have no trouble getting your philodendron to grow in water. Make sure you have the correct amount of sun and plenty of space for your new plant to grow, and you should be practically swimming in plants in no time.

You may also like:

• Philodendron White Measure vs. Birkin
• Philodendron Leaves Turning Yellow
• Philodendron Leaves Not Unfurling

Sophia

Hi! I’m Sophia, and I love plants – especially an expert in growing house plants. I stay in Chicago, United States of America, and through my blog and social media platforms, provide tips and tricks on how to grow healthy, vibrant plants indoors. Check out more here.

The post Propagating Philodendron in Water [Complete Guide] appeared first on HousePlantsInfo.com.

Philodendron White Measure is a Philodendron Birkin. These are different names for the same plant, which is typically dark green with white stripes, a beautiful contrast that many gardeners find appealing. This Philodendron plant is also sometimes referred to as the White Wave.

In this article, I’ll show you what you need to know about the Philodendron White Measure and why it’s sometimes mistakenly assumed to be different from the Philodendron Birkin.

Why the Philodendron White Measure Is Also Called Birkin

There are approximately 450 species of Philodendron plants, as Britannica reports. They come in a variety of colors and patterns. The Philodendron White Measure is a plant with bright green leaves and distinct creamy-white stripes. However, it’s sometimes also called the Birkin.

It’s speculated that Philodendron White Measure got the name Birkin because people named it after the famous Hermés Birkin handbag. New York magazine reports that the plant was so rare and expensive that people compared it to the exclusive handbag range.

Philodendron White Measure vs. Birkin: Why You May Mistake Them for Different Plants

What’s especially striking about the Philodendron White Measure is that its coloring will vary from one plant to another. The random nature of the plant is why people mistakenly think Philodendron White Measure and Birkin are different species of the same plant.

For example, in some plants, the white stripes on the leaves will be uniform in size and pattern, while others don’t.

Similarly, the color of the plant’s stripes can vary. For example, some leaves display bright white stripes while others have cream or yellow lines. Some Birkin plant leaves are so white that they hardly have any green.

In other plants still, the leaves can become completely green, leaving you to wonder if you even own a White Measure or Birkin!

Is Philodendron White Measure a Mutation?

Philodendron White Measure plants can look so different from each other because the plant originated as a mutation of the Philodendron Rojo Congo.

This plant comes from South America and varies from other Philodendron species because it’s not a climber. It has dark green and burgundy leaves and beautiful flowers that can be red or white.

Philodendron White Measure is a spontaneous chimeric (random) mutation of the Philodendron Rojo Congo. A random mutation usually shows up as variegation in the plant, as the unusual white coloration on the leaves.

Chimeric variegation occurs when a plant has two types of genetically distinct cells that give random splashes of color on an otherwise green plant. 

This random expression of color is why Philodendron White Measure can vary in appearance, such as by sprouting some white leaves without any green on them or dark green leaves that look like they should belong to a Philodendron Rojo Congo plant.

Other Things To Know About Philodendron White Measure vs. Birkin

Here are other things to know about the Philodendron White Measure or Birkin and why you might have previously assumed they’re not the same plant.

Sellers Market the Plant the Plant Under Different Names

What adds to the confusion of whether or not the White Measure and Birkin are the same plants is that sellers market the plants under different names in different places. Even more confusing, they can go under the name White Wave.

These different names can cause some people to think that the words signify other Philodendron species, but this isn’t the case.

The Plant Can Revert

If you purchased a Birkin plant, but its appearance is changing, this might make you wonder if you bought a different Philodendron plant. However, this plant can change its appearance over time due to its mutation. No two White Measure plants will ever look the same, which is terrific if you want to own a unique plant.

These changes in appearance can be subtle or dramatic. You might find that your plant becomes an entirely different color, such as pink, or loses its white stripes with new leaf growth.

These variable colorations can cause your plant to look like a combination of two plants, but it’s happening due to the plant reverting to its parent plant, the Rojo Congo.

The Plant Looks Different in Different Growth Stages

If you and your best friend both purchased a Philodendron White Measure, but your plants look different, this could result from the plants being in different growth stages.

When your plant grows new leaves, they tend to be completely white or pale green. As the plant ages, its leaves usually change by becoming dark green.

The Plant’s Leaves Lack Chlorophyll

A plant’s leaf color can change due to its lack of chlorophyll, a pigment that gives plants its green color. Chlorophyll can be lacking in some of the Philodendron White Measure or Birkin plant cells due to their cell mutations.

Chlorophyll absorbs light for the plant so that this energy gets converted into energy-storing molecules. The plant then uses this stored energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose for the plant to grow, a process known as photosynthesis.

Chlorophyll is also responsible for plants having a dark green color because it can’t absorb the green wavelengths of light. So, when these wavelengths get reflected off the plant, it causes the plant to look green, as National Geographic reports.

The green leaves of your Philodendron plant are areas on the plant that contain more chlorophyll, whereas chlorophyll free will be pale green or white. This process is what contributes to the plant’s variegated appearance.

How To Care for White Measure or Birkin Philodendron To Preserve Its Appearance

Although you might think there’s nothing you can do to stop a Philodendron White Measure or Birkin plant from changing its appearance, there are ways to encourage it to maintain its colors and stripes.

Even though a Rojo Congo is beautiful, you might want to preserve your Birkin’s looks, so it doesn’t revert. Here are essential care tips to ensure your plant is healthy. 

Give the Plant 12 Hours of Light Daily

Your Philodendron plant wants to be in indirect, bright light for many hours daily. Ideally, this light should reach the plant after being filtered through a curtain, so it’s not too strong. Variegated plant species, such as the White Measure or Birkin, require more light than non-variegated ones.

Since these plants aren’t green all over, they don’t have enough chlorophyll to absorb sunlight, so putting them in a sunnier spot in the home can encourage them to absorb more light, as The Press-Enterprise reports. You should keep your Philodendron Birkin in an area where it will receive approximately 12 hours of indirect, bright light.

Cut Back Its Non-Variegated Leaves

You can cut back the leaves of your Philodendron White Measure or Birkin so that you remove its new leaves that are not variegated. By pruning your leaves, you will encourage variegated leaves to grow so your Birkin can achieve a bolder coloring. To do this effectively, cut back to the last variegated leaf on the plant.

Avoid Exposing It to Extreme Temperature Changes

Since Philodendron is a tropical plant, it requires temperatures that are between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 23°C). Keep your plant away from hot or cold sources, as both can affect its growth and appearance. When kept indoors, ensure you don’t place your plant close to the following:

• Drafts
• Air-conditioning systems
• Heaters
• Ovens
• Furnaces
• Fans.

If you’ve got a potted Philodendron outside in the garden, be careful not to expose it to cold conditions during winter, especially if you live in an area of the U.S. that experiences freezing winters, such as Minnesota or North Dakota. Move the plant indoors if the temperature gets below 60°F (15°C).

Treat Its Yellow Leaves

If you’ve noticed some leaves on your Philodendron White Measure or Birkin look yellow, you might assume this is just because of its changing colors. But, if all the leaves are becoming yellow, this is a sign that you’re overwatering the plant.

By comparison, if the plant leaves are drooping, this is a sign you’re not watering the plant enough. To prevent overwatering or underwatering your plant, ensure that its soil’s top inch (2.54 cm) is dry before giving it more water. Generally, you should water the plant every week, so its soil doesn’t dry. 

Final Thoughts

If your Philodendron plant changes its colors or stripes, you might wonder if you have a White Measure species or a Birkin. The truth is, these are names for the same plant. As we’ve seen in this article, this type of Philodendron plant can change its appearance for various reasons:

• It’s a mutation of the Rojo Congo plant.
• Its appearance changes during its different growth stages.
• It doesn’t produce enough chlorophyll.

It doesn’t receive enough indirect bright sunlight daily.

You may also like:

• Philodendron Birkin Brown Spots
• Philodendron Birkin White Leaves Turning Brown
• Leaf Spot Disease Philodendron
• Propagating Philodendron in Water

Sophia

Hi! I’m Sophia, and I love plants – especially an expert in growing house plants. I stay in Chicago, United States of America, and through my blog and social media platforms, provide tips and tricks on how to grow healthy, vibrant plants indoors. Check out more here.

The post Philodendron White Measure vs. Birkin appeared first on HousePlantsInfo.com.

Philodendron leaves turn yellow when the plant is experiencing issues like overwatering and underwatering. If the soil looks very dry, you should water it right away. If it looks drenched, avoid watering the plant until the soil appears dry. Other problems that cause yellowing include pests.

Many other things could cause philodendron leaves to turn yellow, and this article will discuss them in great detail. Keep reading to learn more.

Potential Causes for Yellow Philodendron Leaves

If your philodendron leaves are turning yellow, it’s essential to understand that this indicates an issue with your plant. You can hopefully figure out the issue by learning more about the different causes of yellow philodendron leaves. If you catch the problem early, you might be able to rectify it.

Below are the leading causes of yellow philodendron leaves.

Overwatering

One of the most common causes of yellowing philodendron leaves is overwatering. Clemson University says you should water a philodendron frequently enough to keep the soil moist. But it shouldn’t be drenched.

Likely, your philodendron doesn’t receive a lot of direct sunlight, meaning it won’t need as much water as plants under the sun. Overwatering can cause a range of issues, including yellowing leaves.

Here are the signs of an overwatered philodendron:

• Droopy leaves
• Yellow leaves
• Spots around the leaves
• Soft, mushy leaves
• Mushy roots

Over time, overwatering can also lead to disease in the roots, which can kill your philodendron. To avoid this you should only water your philodendron when the first few inches of soil are dry instead of sticking to a specific watering schedule,

Don’t water it if it’s been over a week (but the soil is still damp).

If you believe that your philodendron is suffering from overwatering, the best thing to do is avoid watering it until the soil is completely dry. This may take over a week.

You should also ensure the pot has adequate drainage. If it doesn’t, move the plant to a pot with drainage holes.

And if you have confirmed that the plant also has root rot, you should remove all the affected parts of the roots after rinsing them. Then, you can repot your philodendron into fresh, dry potting soil.

Underwatering

Although overwatering can cause yellow philodendron leaves, underwatering can also be an issue. It would help if you always kept an eye on the soil around the plant to make sure it’s not too dry.

Here are the main signs of underwatering in your plant:

• Stunted growth
• Dry soil
• Droopy leaves
• Yellow leaves
• Crispy leaves

Since many of the symptoms of overwatering are the same as underwatering, you need to pay close attention to your philodendron. One of the main differences is the feel of the leaves.

The leaves tend to be limp and soft when an indoor plant is overwatered. But when it’s underwatered, the leaves will be more dry and crispy.

If you suspect underwatering is the issue, you should water your philodendron immediately. Removing highly affected plant parts, like completely dead leaves, will help your plant recover faster.

Make sure you apply enough water to penetrate the roots of the plant. If you’ve placed the plant near a window, it might be a good idea to move it into the shade until it begins to recover.

Keep an eye on the plant and soil over the coming weeks, and give it water as soon as the soil is dry. If you treat the problem early enough, you might be able to fix it.

Too Many Nutrients

Philodendrons need nutrients to survive, but yours may be receiving too many. If you’ve noticed yellowing leaves a while after applying fertilizer, you should stop using it for a few weeks to see if the issue stops.

To keep it healthy, you should fertilize your philodendron lightly once or twice a month. Fertilizing excessively can cause yellowing leaves and other issues in your plants. Philodendrons also prefer high humidity, especially when they’re being fertilized.

If your home isn’t very humid, like most homes in places like Colorado or Montana, you don’t need to worry. Your philodendron will likely be fine. If you’re worried about it being too dry, you can mist water onto the leaves now and then during winter.

A well-balanced fertilizer is best for philodendrons. If you’re using one that’s too strong (for example, a fertilizer with too much nitrogen), you might be damaging your philodendron.

Too Few Nutrients

Too many nutrients can cause yellowing leaves, but too few can also be a big problem. If your potting soil isn’t highly fertile and you’re not using fertilizer, your plant isn’t getting the nutrients it needs to thrive.

To fix this, you should begin using fertilizer right away. All plants (indoor and outdoor) need nutrients to survive.

Signs that your philodendron (and other houseplants) isn’t getting enough nutrients include:

• Yellow leaves
• Green veins on leaves
• Stunted growth

To fix the issue, you should add fertilizer to the soil. Make sure to use a fertilizer suitable for indoor plants.

An example is Jack’s Houseplant Fertilizer, available on Amazon.com. This fertilizer is made explicitly for houseplants (including philodendrons), so it contains all the essential nutrients for your plant.

After you’ve started using fertilizer, you should notice an improvement within a few weeks.

Pests

Since philodendrons are indoor plants, they’re less prone to disease and pests than outdoor plants. However, pests can be a problem in some instances, and they can cause yellowing leaves and other symptoms.

Some of the most common houseplant pests include:

• Aphids
• Mealybugs
• Spider mites

Generally, these pests get into your home if you bring a plant that has been outdoors for an extended period indoors. If you leave affected plants close to other plants, the pests can spread and cause further damage.

If you suspect pests might be causing the yellowing leaves on your philodendron, you should examine the plant thoroughly, particularly under the leaves.

To remove pests from your philodendron, you can spray water onto them. You can also remove them by hand, ensuring you get each one. If the problem is too advanced for handpicking, apply a houseplant pesticide and remove any highly affected plant parts.

Lack of Sunlight

Another thing to consider is sunlight. Thankfully, philodendrons don’t need much sunlight, so you generally don’t have to worry about them not getting enough of it. But if your plant is in complete darkness daily, it might show signs of distress.

Here are some signs that your houseplant (including philodendron) isn’t getting enough sunlight:

• Small leaves
• Yellow leaves
• Pale green leaves
• Stunted growth
• Leggy growth

Philodendrons grow best in partial sunlight, so make sure you’re putting yours at a window that receives sunlight during the day.

If your plant is damaged due to insufficient sunlight, put it in the sun immediately. By giving it adequate sunlight every day, it should begin to improve within a few days or weeks.

Too Much Sun

As I mentioned in the last section, insufficient sunlight can cause yellowing leaves in philodendrons. However, too much sun can cause burning and yellowing leaves.

If you live somewhere that gets super hot and sunny, like Arizona, make sure your philodendron isn’t getting burned. Keep it in partial shade for most of the day, and make sure you’re watering it more if it’s getting too much sun.

While too much sun can cause yellow leaves, it can also make them appear droopy. Keeping your philodendron away from too much sun should fix and prevent this issue from recurring.

Disease

Lastly, different diseases can cause philodendron leaves to turn yellow.

Some of the most common diseases found in philodendrons (according to the Connecticut state government) include:

• Root rot
• Bacterial leaf spot

Both diseases can cause yellow leaves, so you should consider both. While root rot is fungal and often caused by overwatering, the leaf spot is bacterial. Allowing your philodendron to sit in water can cause root rot.

Leaf spot is less likely to cause complete yellowing of leaves, but it can cause some yellowing. You’ll likely notice spotty leaves if your plant has a bacterial leaf spot, and you should remove any affected leaves immediately to treat the disease.

To fix root rot:

1. Change the potting soil and pot.
2. Wash the roots of the plant.
3. Apply fungicide to the roots.
4. Remove the dead parts of the roots.
5. Replant the philodendron in the new pot and soil.

After successfully treating root rot, the leaves should eventually be a healthy green color.

Final Thoughts

There are many reasons why your philodendron roots might be turning yellow. The most common causes are over or underwatering. However, yellowing may also be caused by too many or too few nutrients, too much or insufficient sunlight, pests, and diseases. Once you identify the cause you’ll be able to fix your philodendron leaves and stop any further yellowing.

You may also like:

• Philodendron White Measure vs. Birkin
• Philodendron Leaves Not Unfurling
• Philodendron Leaves Curling After Repotting

Sophia

Hi! I’m Sophia, and I love plants – especially an expert in growing house plants. I stay in Chicago, United States of America, and through my blog and social media platforms, provide tips and tricks on how to grow healthy, vibrant plants indoors. Check out more here.

The post Philodendron Leaves Turning Yellow [Causes & How to Fix] appeared first on HousePlantsInfo.com.

The most common reasons why philodendron leaves don’t unfurl are that the plant isn’t getting enough sunlight, water, or humidity. Adjusting these elements of the plant’s care will encourage its leaves to unfurl and maintain the general health of the plant.

In this article, I’ll explore common reasons why philodendron leaves don’t unfurl and how to fix them so your beautiful plant can continue growing.

1. Your Philodendron Isn’t Getting Enough Humidity

Philodendrons grow and thrive in rainforests where the soil is moist. So, if your philodendron isn’t getting enough moisture at home, this can cause its leaves to get stuck or even break inside its sheaths. However, watering your philodendron is not enough. There has to be enough humidity for it to thrive.

Philodendrons need at least 60-70% humidity in the air. Philodendron is a tropical plant and the warm and humid rainforests of Central and South America are its natural habitat.

Unfurled leaves aside, a philodendron plant will show other signs if it’s not getting enough humidity, such as:

• Dry leaf tips
• Brown leaf tips
• Curling leaf edges
• Leaves falling off the plant

How To Fix

Buying a humidifier that releases cool mist into the room is an easy way to give your plants more humidity. I recommend the AquaOasis Cool Mist Humidifier, available on Amazon. It has a 360° rotating nozzle so you can control where the mist is directed.

A great way to ensure your philodendron gets enough humidity is to mist its leaves every other day.

You could also put a pebble try underneath the plant. This tray contains pebbles and water, providing your plant with constant humidity.

A pebble tray is an especially good idea if your indoor humidity is low. This is usually true for those living in a dry U.S. state such as Arizona or Nevada. Here’s how to make a pebble tray:

1. Find a tray that’s a bit larger than your plant’s pot.
2. Fill it with decorative pebbles.
3. Fill the tray with water, leaving about half an inch (1.3 cm) of dry pebbles on top.
4. Place the pot containing the philodendron plant on top of the pebbles.
5. When the pebble tray dries, add more water. You will have to do this more frequently when the weather is hot.
6. Rinse the pebbles every few weeks and replace the tray’s water. This will discourage insects from coming to the tray.

2. Your Philodendron Needs More Sunlight

Philodendron plants require bright, indirect sunlight. Generally, they should get between one and four hours of indirect sunlight per day. This light should stream through your windows, as Country Living reports.

Philodendrons can usually handle low-light conditions—after all, they’re often covered by tree canopies in their natural habitat. However, not receiving enough light will still affect their growth. They might not grow as quickly as they should, and their leaves could remain unfurled.

How To Fix

Check the light levels that your philodendron plant is getting every day. If you notice that your plant isn’t in enough bright light, move it somewhere where there’s more light. You can place it close to a window, but not under direct sunlight. Philodendrons should get bright, indirect sunlight.

Note that if you have a variegated philodendron plant, it will thrive with even more hours of light per day. This will make its colors bolder and brighter.

Ideally, your philodendron should get indirect sunlight, but if there isn’t enough natural light where you live, you can consider using artificial lights. These lights are especially useful if you live in an area of the U.S. that doesn’t get a lot of sunlight, such as Portland or Pittsburgh.

Fluorescent tubes are 2½ times more efficient than incandescent lights at turning electricity into light, making them one of the best choices for creating indoor lighting for your plants.

Here are a couple of tips for using fluorescent lights:

• Keep your plants at about 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm) from the light. Artificial lighting is at its most effective at this distance.
• If the position of your light fixture isn’t adjustable, you can still place the plants on shelves or stands in order to modify their distance from the light source.

3. You Recently Repotted Your Philodendron

If your philodendron was becoming too large for its pot, there’s a good chance you’ve repotted it. But now, you’re seeing that its leaves are curling or unfurling. The plant is experiencing shock because of the change, but it will get used to its new pot quickly.

How To Fix

There are some important tips you should follow when repotting your philodendron so that it experiences a smooth transition.

• Give the philodendron enough humidity and light during its transition so that it can recover.
• Repot your plant in the next pot size from its current pot. Avoid putting it in a lot larger pot than the previous one. This will cause the soil to remain too wet, which can cause your plant to get brown spots on its leaves and curled leaves.
• Avoid repotting a philodendron if its leaves are currently unfurled. This is a sensitive stage of its growth; you don’t want to disrupt it with massive change.

4. Your Philodendron Is Getting Too Much or Too Little Water

Philodendrons should get enough water, but you shouldn’t over-water either. Both cases can prevent their leaves from growing. It can also cause root rot, a disease that occurs when plants are exposed to too much water over time.

You should adjust your watering schedule depending on the time of year. During the warmer months, you can expect your plant to require more water than during the colder months.

How To Fix

Touch the first inch (2.5 cm) of the plant’s soil with your fingers. If the soil feels dry, you should water your plant. If it’s still moist, don’t water it yet.

A great way to gauge how much moisture is in your plant is to purchase a moisture meter. I recommend the XLUX Soil Moisture Meter from Amazon. It has a sensing probe that gives you instant, accurate results on the quality of your soil. It also has a large clear dial that’s easy to read.

5. Your Philodendron Isn’t Getting Enough Fertilizer

Philodendron plants are heavy feeders that require fertilizer on a regular basis. This increases their leaf size and generally encourages the growth of a healthier plant with beautiful colors.

If your philodendron doesn’t get enough fertilizer, it will lack the essential nutrients it needs to grow properly. The best fertilizer for philodendrons is a 3-1-2 that’s specifically formulated for philodendrons. It contains three parts nitrogen, one part phosphorous, and two parts potassium.

How To Fix

Purchasing fertilizer is the easiest way to fix a lack of nutrients in your philodendron. I recommend the Philodendron Fertilizer Liquid Plant Food, available from Amazon. It’s been specially formulated to encourage the healthy growth of philodendrons’ leaves, roots, and stems.

You should fertilize your philodendron plant in the spring and summer when it’s in its growing stage. When the plant becomes dormant during the fall and winter, give it fertilizer once every six weeks.

When feeding your plant fertilizer, make sure you apply the fertilizer to moist soil so that you don’t injure or damage the plant’s roots.

The alternative is to make homemade fertilizer with a base of compost. This can also work, but it’s also a little tricky, as its nutritional content will be slightly different each time.

6. Your Philodendron Isn’t Getting the Right Temperature

It’s not just sunlight and humidity that will help your philodendron plant unfurl its leaves—it also needs to be at the correct temperature. The ideal daytime temperatures for philodendrons are between 75 and 85° F (23.8-29°C). For the nighttime, they’re between 65 and 70 °F (18-21°C).

How To Fix

When keeping your philodendron indoors, you should find a compromise between giving the plant enough warmth and keeping your spaces comfortable. You can set your thermostat to around 75° F (23° C) during the day and around 70° F (21°C) at night, which is considered comfortable for most people.

If the temperature that suits you isn’t ideal for your plant, consider putting your plants in a separate room where you can keep the temperature at a different degree. You can achieve this with an HVAC Zoning System that enables you to set different temperatures for different areas in your home.

Summary

If you own a philodendron plant, you’ll probably be disappointed if its leaves look unfurled or stuck.

Luckily, there are some important philodendron care tips you can follow that will help the plant unfurl its leaves and grow healthy:

• Make sure the plant gets approximately four hours of light per day.
• Water the plant when its soil feels dry.
• Give the plant enough humidity—ideally around 60-70 percent.
• Give the plant enough fertilizer.

Keep the plant in temperatures of around 75° F (23° C) during the day and 70° F (21°C) during the night.

You may also like:

• Philodendron Leaves Curling After Repotting
• Philodendron Birkin White Leaves Turning Brown
• Philodendron Birkin Brown Spots
• Philodendron Leaves Turning Yellow

Sophia

Hi! I’m Sophia, and I love plants – especially an expert in growing house plants. I stay in Chicago, United States of America, and through my blog and social media platforms, provide tips and tricks on how to grow healthy, vibrant plants indoors. Check out more here.

The post Philodendron Leaves Not Unfurling [Causes & Fixes] appeared first on HousePlantsInfo.com.

The leaves of your philodendron are curling after repotting because of transplant shock. Transplant shock is the term used to refer to multiple stressors caused by repotting a plan, such as a change in environment, a reduction in size, and physical damage inflicted while transplanting.

In the rest of this article, I’ll explain the symptoms of transplant shock in detail, describe how to help your philodendron when it happens, and show you how to prevent it the next time you venture into repotting. Please read on if you seek a solution to all your repotting problems!

Transplant Shock and Curling Philodendron Leaves

Transplant shock is also the main culprit behind your philodendron leaves curling up. Transplant shock happens when your philodendron suffers a multitude of stressors as a consequence of repotting.

This condition isn’t rare and is known to occur when bringing the plant home from the nursery or moving it to another location in your house. The reasons may vary from improper planting, accidentally causing the plant any physical damage, to a simple environmental change.

All of this can cause the root system to be unable to supply the plant with enough water because the stress makes it incapable of adjusting appropriately, resulting in stunted growth, withering, and making the philodendron susceptible to many diseases.

Transplant Shock Symptoms

The primary reason leaves curl in indoor plants is the poor water availability, whether from root damage or not being watered enough.

When the leaves dry out, your philodendron creates a microclimate around its leaves, i.e., around the stomata, by twisting the leaves along the middle and inwards. This movement manages its opening and closing.

When necessary, the plant opens them to promote absorption and flow of water, but when there is nothing to absorb, it can close the stomata, thus retaining moisture and curling the leaf.

Other symptoms to look out for in your philodendron include:

• Leaf scorch or leaf burn. This condition is browning and drying of leaf tips and edges. It can also cause the veins in the flesh of the leaf to turn yellow or darken.
• Leaves wilting or drooping: When your philodendron leaves start to wilt and droop, although you are careful of your watering habits (especially noticeable in recent transplants), this is a sure sign of a transplant shock.
• Leaves Dying: A surefire way to find out if your philodendron is suffering from transplant shock is if it has leaves that fall off from the slightest touch. This fragility shows the plant is dying, and you must act now.

How To Treat Transplant Shock

Sometimes, you can’t avoid transplant shock even with the utmost care. To a beginner gardener unfamiliar with it, transplant shock can bring you almost as much stress as it does to your philodendron.

If it happens, don’t panic, there are always ways to assist your plant baby in recovering from it. Here are some ways to help:

Be Mindful When Watering Your Philodendron

Although you might think that your philodendron needs a lot of water to recover from the transplant shock, you should take care. Although this seems counterintuitive, remember that it doesn’t do well in a wet environment.

Water it when needed rather than in regular intervals, and do so sparingly, directly above the roots.

The pot you transplant a philodendron to should have appropriately sized holes to allow excess water to pass through, and it would also be good to line the bottom with stones that will enable water to pass through more easily.

Prune the Philodendron

Pruning will make the root system’s job a bit easier. Since it carries the weight of recovery, pruning allows the plant to recover much more effortlessly if it has fewer leaves to feed.

Feel free to cut the long roots and prune the oldest stems by cutting in the place the stem meets the body of the plant. You can also prune the discolored leaves just above the node because once they start changing color, there is no turning back.

However, don’t remove more than 75% of the growth.

Avoid Using Fertilizers

Your philodendron needs time to adjust to its new environment and establish a new and effective root system. Adding fertilizers and other substances to the soil may harm your plant more than it helps.

When you fertilize your transplanted philodendron, the added nutrients will cause your plant to start new leaf growth. This new growth can take energy away from the plant establishing new root growth and causing your plant even further stress.

Many fertilizers have high nitrogen concentrations, which may burn your plant’s sensitive roots and even kill your philodendron. Instead, hold off fertilization and soil additions until your plant has established a solid and effective root system.

Have Patience While Your Philodendron Recovers

Recovery is a long and slow process. It can take up to two or three weeks, and with older or very stressed plants, up to two months. However long it takes, be tenacious, don’t give up, and trust that you are doing everything possible for your philodendron.

How To Prevent Transplant Shock

Philodendrons need to be transplanted every two years or at least when the roots start to emerge from the ground. The best time to do this is late spring or early summer.

You can remove the soil from the roots during transplanting and prune old and unnecessary roots. You should repot the plant in a larger container in loose soil with flowing drainage and firmly press the soil down. Water the philodendron after one to two days, and don’t add fertilizer for the first two weeks.

Here are ten tips to help you to avoid transplant shock:

• Avoid leaving the roots exposed for too long during the move, as this may cause them to dry out. Keeping the root system moist while handling it will help the plant re-establish itself faster in its new home.
• If the roots are soft, squishy, or damaged, remove them immediately because root rot makes your philodendron susceptible to bacteria and fungi. When removing the roots, ensure not to remove more than one-third of the root system.
• Use slightly acidic (pH 6 to 6.5) nutrient-rich soil high in organic matter. If you decide to add peat, use it in small amounts because it can easily become too compact and water-repellent, thus creating drainage problems.
• Repot the philodendron in a pot of appropriate size. Repotting in a pot that is too large will lead to too much soil for too little plant material. This placement can cause the soil to stay moist for a long time leading to roots not getting any air and rot developing.
• Use water-retaining materials for your pots. Plastic isn’t as pretty as terracotta, but it will keep the foliage watered better, especially if you keep it outside as you can in California or Florida, where philodendrons thrive all year round.
• Don’t plant the philodendron too low in the pot. Fill the pot with soil up to an inch (2.5 cm) from the top.
• Avoid repotting during the summer or, if there is no other way, try to do it on a colder, cloudy day or in the early morning when the temperatures are lower. Also, don’t report during the plant’s dormant period because it’s when no significant growth occurs. When you plant your philodendron at the wrong time, it makes the necessary growth of new roots and leaves a struggle for your plant.
• Position the philodendron in the same place it was before or in the same lighting and temperature conditions it had before repotting. Small changes such as repositioning can cause it to experience transplant shock, so try not to change the surroundings too much. Make sure it is in bright, indirect sunlight.
• Don’t forget that the philodendron is mildly toxic to humans. Use gloves while repotting, and avoid getting the sap in your eyes or grazes on your skin.
• If you plan to repot your philodendron outdoors, check if you live in the USDA plant hardiness zone 9 to 12, such as Florida and Southern California. Otherwise, keep it indoors as a house plant because it is a tropical plant that can’t survive temperatures lower than 55°F (13°C).

Conclusion

Transplant shock can happen to anyone, even the most experienced among us. Watching your beautifully vivid green leaves curl and die is horrible, but helping your philodendron survive will bring you the much-needed experience to prevent it from happening next time.

Even if the worst happens and your plant doesn’t survive, don’t let it stop you from trying again with a new exotic philodendron. Follow the steps described in the text, and don’t forget that prevention is better than resuscitation.

You may also like:

• Philodendron Leaves Not Unfurling
• Philodendron Birkin White Leaves Turning Brown
• Leaf Spot Disease Philodendron

Sophia

Hi! I’m Sophia, and I love plants – especially an expert in growing house plants. I stay in Chicago, United States of America, and through my blog and social media platforms, provide tips and tricks on how to grow healthy, vibrant plants indoors. Check out more here.

The post Philodendron Leaves Curling After Repotting [How To Treat] appeared first on HousePlantsInfo.com.