The sweetheart or heartleaf philodendron is a plant that’s perfect for people who are terrible with plants. Not only does it have beautiful shades, but the easiest type of greenery to keep healthy!
Here’s everything you need know about caring for this gorgeous selection in your home.
Philodendron Light Requirements
Philodendrons are perfect for low light conditions, one of the many reasons they’re so versatile. Plants that receive medium or indirect light will grow faster and produce more leaves but avoid direct sunlight because this can lead to scorching!
Watering Your Philodendron
Philodendrons can be grown in soil or just water. If you want to grow yours on land, make sure that half of the potting mix is dry and then give it a good watering when necessary for optimal growth!
When you notice that the leaves on your philodendron are wilted, it’s time for a drink. Give them enough water and they’ll perk right back up!
Philodendrons are masters at living in both soil and water. They need to be monitored carefully, though – if you notice them drinking more than usual, then you should probably lower the amount of water you give it, or give less water frequently.
Note: Philodendrons are used to living in either soil or water, so it is worth knowing that they may not do well if they are transferred to another medium!
Potted Philodendrons
Potted philodendrons are great plants for adding life and color to your home. They require well-drained soil, but rooting them in fresh potting mix can be tricky if you don’t readjust their roots after about three years of use! A better idea is using smaller pots so that excess water doesn’t cause problems with over-hydration.
A pot with a drainage hole is best for plant care. If you want to use something other than the standard pots, just put some philodendron in terra cotta pots and place pebbles at bottom so as not to sit too much water underneath them!
Philodendron Fertilizer
I know from personal experience that philodendrons will survive for years without fertilization, but they’re a fast-growing plant and should still be fed monthly. In the spring and summer, you can give them half strength houseplant fertilizer every month, and in winter and fall, fertilize them once every other month.
Otherwise, fertilize every 2-3 months. You should fertilize when new leaves are being produced so that you don’t damage any other parts of its system with too much fertilizer at once!
Pruning Your Philodendron
Philodendrons may be enjoyed as hanging plants, trailing plants or table ones. Regardless which style you choose, you need to prune them regularly, if you want it happy and lush – keep the leggy trails cut just after a node!
So, prune them often to promote bushy look, and boost their growth. For the cuts, you can use scissors, pruning shears, or your fingernails.
How to Propagate Philodendrons
One of the most fun things about philodendrons is how easy they are to propagate. Simply cut or pinch off a branch, making sure that at least couple nodes are present.
The best part? Place the cutting in water or soil, and it will begin growing almost instantly.
Philodendron Toxicity
The philodendron plant can be hazardous to your health. Pets and people alike should never ingest any part of the vine, for it could cause severe discomfort including burning in mouth or throat; vomiting; diarrhea among other toxic effects.
The ASPCA reports that philodendrons are toxic to dogs, cats and horses. Signs of poisoning include oral irritation pain swelling mouth tongue lips difficulty swallowing; however the plant’s sap contact could also cause skin irritations which would indicate if your pet may be allergic or sensitive to it’s toxins.