How to Care for a Showboat Philodendron
The Showboat Philodendron is a hybrid plant that is similar to a Xanadu Philodendron. It is an evergreen plant and is sensitive to cold. The lobed leaves are smaller than most philodendrons and the height of this variety is generally less than others. It grows best is USDA zones from 9 to 15. A showboat Philodendron is generally easy to grow and care for. It grows well in containers and outdoors. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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General Care
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1
Fill a pot with a soil that is slightly acidic and well drained. Water the soil until it is damp but not soggy. Place the plant in the pot deeply enough that the entire root ball is underground. Do not cover any stems with soil.
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Place the pot in a location that is well lighted but also partially shaded. Full sunlight is not recommended as the leaves can burn easily. Artificial lighting can be used if natural light is not available. The temperature should remain between 60 to 85 degrees. Lower temperatures can be tolerated temporarily.
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3
Water the plant after the soil has dried out slightly. Mist the leaves periodically with a spray bottle or by placing the plant in a tepid shower to clear dust from the leaves. Water less often in the winter months.
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Feed the plant every two weeks with a nitrogen rich fertilizer. Suspend fertilizing during the winter months.
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Propagate the plant by removing cuttings that contain two joints and planting them in either coarse sand or peat moss. New plants can be repotted when roots are well developed.
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Tips & Warnings
All Philodendrons do best with cramped roots while in pots. The Showboat Philodendron is slow growing and will only need to be repotted every two or three years.
Add small gravel or marbles to the bottom of the pot before adding soil to help facilitate drainage.
Place a dish of gravel under the pot and fill with water. This will help to raise the humidity level around the plant.
Do not keep the plant in an area that has a very low light level. Lack of sufficient light will cause lack of growth and yellowing of leaves.
Showboat Philodendrons are prone to spider mites. To eliminate the mites, wash all leaves with warm water with a small amount of mild soap added. Be sure to wash the undersides of the leaves as well.
