Philodendron Care: Varieties for Your Home

Philodendrons are the perfect beginner plants. They grow reliably, help purify the air and offer the right greenery for every room thanks to their variety of shapes. We show you how to care for your philodendrons properly.

What makes philodendrons special?

These houseplants originate in the tropical rainforests of the Americas. They climb up trees or grow as bushy plants on the forest floor. This origin explains their preferences: high humidity, warm temperatures and filtered light.

Their adaptability makes them ideal houseplants. They tolerate different light conditions and forgive the occasional missed watering. Leaf shapes range from heart-shaped to deeply split.

How do I find the perfect location?

Location determines growth. Philodendrons need indirect light. A spot near an east- or west-facing window is ideal. Direct midday sun will burn the leaves.

In partial shade, the plants grow more slowly but remain healthy. Avoid draughts from doors or air conditioning. The room temperature should stay above 15 degrees Celsius all year round.

What humidity level is needed?

Philodendrons love humid air. Mist the leaves regularly with low-limescale water. Alternatively, place a bowl of water and pebbles nearby. In the watering section, you will find practical spray bottles.

This care is particularly important in winter, when heated air is dry. Brown leaf tips are a warning sign that the air is too dry.

How do I water and fertilize correctly?

Watering is easy. Let the top layer of soil dry out between waterings. To check, push a finger into the soil. If it feels dry, it is time to water.

Use room-temperature, standing water. Water thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes. Empty the saucer after 15 minutes. Waterlogging is the plant's biggest enemy.

The right fertilizer for vigorous growth

During the growing season from March to September, fertilize every four weeks. Use a liquid fertilizer for green plants. Halve the dose stated on the packaging.

In winter, almost completely stop fertilizing. Once in November is enough. You will find suitable products in the fertilizer range.

The elegance of philodendrons lies in their restraint. They do not constantly demand attention, but they reward regular, simple care with lush, healthy growth.

Which soil and pot are ideal?

Use loose, well-draining potting soil. A mixture of houseplant soil, coconut fiber and perlite is perfect. Good drainage is essential.

The pot must have drainage holes. A layer of expanded clay or gravel at the bottom prevents waterlogging. Repot every two to three years in spring.

Choose the new pot only one size larger. Too much soil stores too much water and can damage the roots. For repotting, you will find everything you need in our Garden & Plant Accessories category.

The most popular philodendron varieties at a glance

The choice is huge. We introduce three distinctive examples.

Philodendron Scandens (Climbing Philodendron)

This variety is a classic. It grows with long, heart-shaped leaves and is perfect for hanging baskets or as a climbing plant on a moss pole.

2x Philodendron Scandens - 5cm - Ø12cm

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Scandens is particularly easy to care for and grows quickly. It also copes well with shadier locations.

Philodendron Xanadu (Bushy Philodendron)

This variety grows compactly and forms a bushy shape. Its large, deeply split leaves create a dense clump. It is perfect as a standalone plant in large rooms.

Xanadu needs somewhat more space and light than the climbing Scandens. However, it also forgives care mistakes.

Philodendron Brandtianum & Anthurium Mix

Plant sets provide variety.

Green mix 3 plants - Monstera obliqua 'Monkey Leaf' - 25 cm - ø12 - Philodendron Brandtianum - 35 cm - ø12 - Anthurium Chrystallium - 35 cm - ø12

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This lets you create a small jungle corner right away. The plants have similar care requirements and complement each other visually.

How do I prune and propagate my plant?

Pruning encourages bushier growth. In spring, shorten overly long shoots directly above a leaf node. Use clean, sharp garden tools.

You can use the cuttings for propagation straight away. Each section of stem with at least one leaf and one aerial root can develop into a new plant.

Propagation in water or soil

Water propagation is easy. Place the cutting in a glass of water. Change the water weekly. Roots will form after a few weeks.

Then plant the rooted cutting in soil. You can also place cuttings directly into moist seed-starting soil. A transparent cover creates a favorable microclimate.

Propagating philodendrons is a wonderful introduction to plant care. The successes are motivating, and you can give someone a piece of greenery that will bring pleasure for a long time.

What problems can occur?

Pests are rare. Spider mites occasionally appear when the air is too dry. Increase the humidity and shower the plant. Biological treatments can help with severe infestations.

Scale insects can be identified by the brown, hard bumps on leaves and stems. Wipe them off with a cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol.

Identify and correct care mistakes

Brown, crispy leaf edges: The air is too dry. Mist the plant more often.

Yellow, falling leaves: Usually caused by overwatering. Water less and check the drainage.

Long, thin stems with small leaves: Not enough light. Move the plant to a brighter location.

Pale leaves: Often caused by a nutrient deficiency. Fertilise regularly during the growing season.

Philodendrons throughout the year

Spring and summer are the main growing season. Water and fertilise regularly. Check whether the plant needs repotting.

In autumn, gradually reduce fertilising. Water less as the plant stops growing.

Winter is the dormant period. Do not place the plant directly above a radiator. Mist the leaves to counter dry air. Water only occasionally.

With this simple care routine, your philodendron will thrive for many years. It will add vibrant greenery to your home and improve the indoor climate. Discover the variety of philodendrons and find your favourite.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water a philodendron?

Water when the top layer of soil is dry. This means about once a week in summer and every 10-14 days in winter. Waterlogging causes root rot. Use pots with drainage holes.

What is the ideal location for a philodendron?

Philodendrons prefer bright, indirect light. Morning or evening sun is tolerated, but avoid direct midday sun. They also grow in partial shade, although more slowly. Draughts can harm the plants.

Is the philodendron toxic to pets?

Yes. All philodendron species contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate cats, dogs and people. Keep the plant out of reach. If swallowed, it can cause drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.

Why does my philodendron have yellow leaves?

Yellow leaves are often a sign of overwatering. Check the roots for rot. Too much direct sunlight or a nutrient deficiency may also be the cause. Reduce watering and adjust the plant's location.

Can I propagate my philodendron?

Yes, easily by cuttings. Cut off a shoot with at least one leaf and an aerial root node. Place it in water or plant it directly in moist propagation soil. New roots will form quickly in warm, humid conditions.