How to Care for Philodendron—a Popular, Low-Maintenance Houseplant

Philodendrons are one of the most popular houseplants thanks to their reputation for being low maintenance. The tropical plant has large, waxy green leaves that look beautiful in any setting. Philodendrons can thrive inside if their watering and sunlight requirements are met.

There are two types of philodendrons—vining and non-climbing. Non-climbing philodendrons grow upright, while vining types need a structure to crawl up. (Vining philodendrons are commonly confused with pothos, another trailing houseplant.) Both vining and non-climbing iterations of philodendron have similar needs. Ahead, gardening experts explain what you need to know about growing and caring for a philodendron.

Philodendron Care

While philodendrons are known for being low maintenance, there are some things to remember as you care for one to ensure it stays healthy and happy.

Water

Water your philodendron plant when the top inch of soil is dry, says Melinda Myers, gardening expert and host of the Great Courses' How to Grow Anything DVD series. Water the plant thoroughly and drain any excess water that collects in the saucer so it doesn't lead to root rot.

Sunlight

Philodendrons prefer indirect sunlight—light that has been filtered or is partially shaded. Solid green philodendrons are more tolerant of low light, while variegated cultivars will lose the colored portion of their leaves when the light is too dim, says Meyers. Place your philodendron near a window but far enough away that it isn't getting direct light.

Soil

Philodendrons grow best in well-draining potting soil that's rich in organic matter. These plants like to be slightly pot-bound as the soil will dry out faster between waterings. The soil should be evenly moist, but not water-logged, which can cause root rot.

Temperature

Philodendrons grow best in high humidity, but they can tolerate normal home temperatures between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep them away from air conditioners during summer and areas with a cold draft during winter.

Fertilizer

Fertilize philodendron during its growing season, which is usually from March to November, says Meyers. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, following the package's instructions for proper dosage and application instructions.

Types of Philodendron

Hoping to add a philodendron plant to your home? Consider one of the following varieties.

Birkin Philodendron

One popular non-climbing variety is Birkin philodendron, which is defined by its large dark green leaves with creamy streaks, says Meyers. The plant is slow-growing and can reach 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide at maturity.

Pink Princess Philodendron

Pink princess philodendron is a vining type with dark, olive-green leaves with white spots when they first emerge—but change to black and hot pink when the plant reaches maturity.

Split Leaf Philodendron

Split leaf philodendron is one of the most popular varieties of philodendron and has large leaves with unique slits and holes.

How to Propagate Philodendron

Propagation allows you to create new plants from existing ones. The easiest way to propagate a philodendron is to cut a stem and submerge it in water, says Beatriz Garces, gardening expert for Nature's Way Farms. To do so, cut a stem just below one of the nodes (where the leaf was attached) and submerge it in a container with water. To easily identify when new roots grow, place the node in a clear vessel. Keep the cutting in an area with indirect light. Once it has roots, you can repot it in a container with well-draining potting mix.

How to Prune Philodendron

Philodendrons don't require routine pruning, but if it gets too big or some of the leaves start to turn yellow, use pruning shears and prune the plant as needed, says Garces. You can use the cuttings for propagation so they don't go to waste.

How to Repot Philodendron

While philodendrons like to be pot-bound, they will eventually need to be repotted. If the soil is drying out too quickly, it is a sign it's time to repot your philodendron. To do so, select a container that's one size bigger than its current vessel. Gently remove the plant from its container and place it in the new one with well-draining potting mix. Water well and place it somewhere with indirect sunlight.

Common Problems With Philodendron

Yellowing Leaves

Are the leaves of your philodendron turning yellow? This is likely due to overwatering, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and become soft. To fix this issue, scale back your watering schedule and ensure proper drainage, says Garces.

Fungal Leaf Spots

Fungal leaf spots, or leaf spot disease, is another result of overwatering. To fix this issue, remove the infected portions and adjust your watering schedule accordingly, says Meyers.

Root Rot

Root rot is also common with philodendrons. To save your plant, trim off soft and discolored roots and repot your philodendron in a new container with fresh potting mix. Alternatively, take cuttings from a healthy portion, propagate them, and discard the diseased plant.