Question
Good day,

I recently bought a philodendron( have had it for 10 days)and am wondering about water schedules and lighting. I keep it indoors and water it every two days. It is not in direct sunlight and less than five feet from any direct light source( windows amd glass doors).The plant has nice big shiny dark green and dark red leaves. The stems are also the same color. I've been reading that the soil of the plant is to be keep dry and moist from various plant info sites. I also read the pot is to have drainage( mine doesn't). Do I need to change the pot?  Can you help me with the best care to keep my beautiful plant alive and healthy?

Answer
Hi Nedra,

Putting drainage material in the bottom of pots is an outdated and discredited horticultural practice. Philodendrons do best when kept moderately potbound. If they are kept in pots that too large, then there is a very good chance of root rot.

When properly potted, it is best to allow the top quarter of the soil to feel dry
to the touch before watering thoroughly until a bit of water comes through the drain hole.

Indoors, Philodendrons need lots of very bright, but mostly indirect sunlight. A location close to a window that is just beyond the reach of the sun's rays is best.

Fertilize monthly at half-strength. Keep long stems pruned back to keep the Philodendron from becoming unruly.

I have written articles on potting and on Philodendron care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who emails a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com