How to grow Philodendron

Philodendron hederaceum · Heartleaf philodendron

A climbing or trailing plant with glossy, heart-shaped leaves on long stems that can hang from a shelf or basket or climb a moss pole.

Quick facts

Type	Houseplant
Family	Araceae
Light	Partial shade
Soil pH	5–6
Frost	does not tolerate frost
Soil for sowing	from 15 °C
Where it grows	At home

When to plant

Planted as a young plant from a nursery while it is dormant — in early spring before the buds open, or in autumn after leaf fall.

Frost dates · When to plant

Care

At home

Stage	Watering	Temperature	Feeding
Growth	every 7 days	—	balanced (NPK), 14 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 44 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 74 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 104 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 134 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 164 days into the stage; balanced (NPK), 194 days into the stage
Winter rest	every 14 days	—	—

Growing notes

Light

Bright but indirect light, out of direct summer sun, which scorches the leaves. It tolerates low light, but in too little light it gets leggy and makes fewer, smaller leaves.

Soil

Loose, free-draining, slightly acidic compost, pH 5–6, for example two parts orchid compost to one part ericaceous compost. Use a pot only a few centimetres wider than the root ball.

Care

Water once the top of the compost has dried out, ideally with rainwater or filtered water at room temperature, and never leave it standing in water, which rots the roots; water less in winter. Feed with a liquid houseplant fertiliser once a month from April to September. Cut back straggly stems in spring, just after a leaf node, to get bushier growth. Toxic to cats and dogs, and the sap can irritate skin, so wear gloves when pruning.

Pests and diseases of Philodendron

Sources

Figures checked against these sources.