How to Care for Tree Philodendron
Tree philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum) is a large foliage plant or small shrub that often grows as a houseplant in the United States and produces huge green leaves with deep, irregular slits. The plant's foliage gives it the alternative name of split-leaf philodendron. The plant can reach heights of up to 15 feet, with each leaf reaching up to 3 feet long. Tree philodendron requires warm temperatures and cannot survive winter outdoors in most areas of the country. Indoors, the plant may not reach its full height but it can still grow quite large with the proper care and maintenance. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Plant tree philodendron in well-draining, general-purpose potting soil formulated for house plants. Use a container that has several drainage holes in the bottom for the best results. Place the plant in the soil at the same depth it was previously growing.
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Place your tree philodendron in an area that receives indirect light such as a west- or east-facing window. Light filtered through a curtain works best. Although it prefers bright light during active growth, tree philodendron tolerates lower light during the winter months.
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Maintain a consistent temperature of 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 65 F to 70 F during the night for optimal growth year-round. Never allow temperatures to drop below 55 F or permanent damage may occur.
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Water tree philodendron once or twice a week to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Never allow the plant to stand in water. Reduce watering to once every 10 days in winter when the plant grows less actively but do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
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Mist your tree philodendron once or twice a day using a spray bottle filled with warm water to increase the relative humidity. Because the plant has thinner leaves than other types of philodendrons, it dries out more easily and requires a more humid atmosphere.
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Apply an all-purpose fertilizer diluted to half the manufacturer's recommended strength once every two weeks during the spring and summer months. Do not fertilize in the fall and winter as the plant requires fewer nutrients during this time.
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Tips & Warnings
Grow tree philodendron outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 9 through 11 only (winter lows of 20F). Plant in fertile, well-draining soil in an area of the garden that receives partial shade. Water once a week throughout the year and feed once every two weeks during spring and summer for the best results.
If your tree philodendron begins to wilt in the winter, continue misting once daily and run a humidifier near the plant to negate the dry air.
Repot overcrowded plants any time of year. Simply move them to a slightly larger container filled with general-purpose potting soil as needed.
