The Philodendron is the common type of indoor flowering plant and I love this plant because it increases the decor of my home.
But the main issues that most people face are how to grow this plant and the most important car for this plant. You can even buy one from Amazon but still, you should know how to take care.
That’s why in this article we will discuss the different methods how to grow the Philodendron plant and caring for it.
How to Grow Philodendron from Seed?
Growing Philodendron from seed might sound intimidating at first, but trust me, it’s quite the adventure and doable.
Material Require for Seed Germination
- Fresh Philodendron seeds
- A small pot or seed tray
- A high-quality potting mix
- Plastic wrap or a clear plastic dome
- A spray bottle
- A warm spot with indirect light
Expert Gardners recommend that you have to keep the soil moist and warm if you want to grow from seed. The process of seed sprouting can take up to a month.
Here’s the overview of the process of how we plant the seeds:
1. Start with Fresh Seeds
Always opt for fresh Philodendron seeds for the best germination rate. Older seeds might not sprout as well, or at all.
2. Prep Your Seeds
Give your seeds a quick soak in lukewarm water for about 12 hours. This softens the seed coat and helps jumpstart the germination process.
3. Seed Starting Mix is the Key
Use a well-draining, sterile seed starting mix. Make sure it’s moist but not waterlogged. Your Philodendron seeds will thank you for it!
4. Planting the Seeds
Don’t bury them too deep. A light covering of soil is enough – about twice the thickness of the seed. They need a bit of light to germinate, so don’t tuck them in too tight.
5. Maintain Humidity
Cover your planting container with clear plastic or a dome to keep the humidity high. Philodendron seeds love a tropical vibe to kickstart their growth.
6. Warmth Matters
Keep the soil warm, around 75°F (24°C) if you can. A heat mat can be your best friend here, especially in cooler climates.
7. Patience
Germination can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months, so don’t get discouraged. Keep the soil moist and wait for nature to do its thing.
How to Propagate Philodendron Plant?
The propagation of Philodendrons is way easier than the first method like growing from seeds. The method is very simple but needs some patience.
Material Require for Propagation
- A sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears
- Fresh potting soil, preferably a well-draining mix (Buy from Amazon)
- A small pot or container with drainage holes (I’ll recommend this one)
- Rooting hormone (it will give your cuttings a nice boost, get from Amazon)
- A clear plastic bag or a plastic dome to cover the pot (also optional, for humidity)
Here are the steps you will go through for the propagation of the Philodendron plant.
1. Choose the Right Cutting
First, you have to select a healthy stem from your Philodendron. Look for a vibrant stem, with at least two to three leaves and one node.
A node is that little bump or blemish on the stem where new leaves or roots will emerge.
2. Prepare Your Tools
Before you make that cut, ensure your tools are clean and sharp. I use a pair of garden shears or a sharp knife, sterilized with rubbing alcohol.
It is most important to prevent any infection, ensuring a clean cut that will heal and grow effectively.
3. Make the Cut
Now, with your tools ready, cut just below a node. You’ll want about a 4-6 inch cutting – nothing too big.
A clean cut here is essential for encouraging new growth. Remember, where you cut, new roots will form, so precision matters.
4. Rooting Process
After cutting, you can choose to root your Philodendron cutting in water or directly in soil.
For water rooting, place the cutting in a glass jar filled with water, ensuring at least one node is submerged.
Change the water every few days to keep it fresh. If you’re going the soil route, plant the cutting in moist potting soil. Covering the pot with a plastic bag can create a greenhouse effect, encouraging root growth.
5. Transplanting
When your cutting has established roots, gently plant it in a pot with fresh potting mix.
A pot with drainage holes is a must to prevent waterlogging. Give it indirect light and keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
How to Care for Philodendron Plant?
Caring for a Philodendron plant is easier than you might think. First off, lighting is pretty key.
You want to give your Philodendron a spot that gets bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sun and the leaves can get scorched; too little, and it might not grow as well.
Watering is next. I keep it simple – check the top inch of the soil with your finger, and if it’s dry, it’s time to water.
Avoid letting the plant sit in water, though, because that can lead to root rot. Your Philodendron prefers its soil to be like a wrung-out sponge, moist but not drenched.
Don’t forget about humidity! These plants love a humid environment, so if your home tends to be on the dry side, you might want to mist your plant or use a humidifier.
Feeding your Philodendron is the next step to ensure it thrives. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring through summer).
Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of cleaning the leaves and repotting. Dust can decrease a plant’s ability to photosynthesize efficiently, so gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth from time to time.
And about every two years, or when you notice it’s becoming pot-bound, give your Philodendron a new home with fresh soil.
