How to Grow and Care for Tree Philodendron

Tree philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum) is a striking houseplant known for its large, unique leaves that create a tropical feel in your home. Originally from the tropical regions of South America, such as Brazil and Argentina, it thrives along the East and Gulf coasts of the United States. While it rarely blooms indoors and flowers outdoors only after 15 to 16 years, its bold foliage offers impressive decorative value. However, be cautious, as the tree philodendron is toxic to humans and pets.

Tree Philodendron Care

Similar to many other types of philodendron, the tree philodendron is not fussy about its care and grows well indoors as a houseplant. Here are the main care requirements for growing a tree philodendron:

• Give is a spot in bright, indirect sunlight.
• Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.
• Use a humidifier if the humidity in your home is below average.
• Fertilize monthly during the growing season.

Light

The tree philodendron does best in locations that receive dappled shade or medium to bright indirect light. Indoors, sunny windows filtered with a thin curtain or window blinds are ideal spots for a tree philodendron.

Soil

This member of the aroid family prefers soil that is moist but well-draining and high in organic matter. A pH between 6.0 to 6.5 is ideal. To mix your own growing medium, combine equal parts of organic matter (compost), perlite, orchid bark, and peat moss.

Water

Water your tree philodendron when the top two inches of the soil are dry. The soil should be consistently moist but never waterlogged. The tree philodendron does not tolerate drought and grows best with consistent watering. However, avoid overwatering at all costs because the tree philodendron is susceptible to root rot in overly wet soil.

Temperature and Humidity

The tree philodendron grows well in warm, humid environments. When grown indoors, average household temperature and humidity levels are usually sufficient for this tropical plant if it is not placed too close to a heating vent or drafty window.

Fertilizer

Use a balanced fertilizer once a month throughout the growing season to encourage strong, healthy growth. To avoid fertilizer burn, stop fertilizing in the fall and winter months when the plant enters dormancy.

Pruning

Because these plants grow so large, trimming the stems might be necessary at some point to contain the size of the plant. The best time to prune is during the active growing season in the spring and summer. Cut off stems from the main stem, not just leaves, but leave any woody stems untouched. To encourage the growth of new branches, cut stems back to a node (the point on a stem where leaves are growing).

Propagating Tree Philodendron

Tree philodendrons are easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Instead of throwing the cuttings from pruning into the trash, propagate them to create new plants.

• Make a clean cut below a node on the stem. Each cutting should have 2 to 3 leaves and a couple of nodes on the stem.
• Place the fresh cutting in water and put it in a location that receives bright, indirect light.
• Change the water every week to keep it fresh. After a couple of weeks, you should begin to see small roots forming.
• When the roots are between one to two inches long, move the cutting water into the potting medium.

Potting and Repotting Tree Philodendron

Repot the plant when it has visibly outgrown its container. You may see roots growing out of the drainage hole in the bottom of the pot or filling the soil surface. The best time to repot is in spring or summer during the active growth period.

Use fresh potting mix and a pot one or two inches wider than the previous pot.

Common Pests & Plant Diseases

These tropical plants are susceptible to a few common pests such as spider mites, fungus gnats, aphids, and mealybugs. Regularly inspecting the leaves for signs of pests is the best way to catch infestations early and eradicate them quickly.

Tree philodendrons are also susceptible to root rot, which occurs as a result of improper watering or compacted soil. Mushy stems and brown, dying leaves are both signs of root rot which can kill a plant quickly. If you catch root rot early enough, you might be able to save the plant by cutting off the rotted parts and propagating the remaining stem to grow a new root system.

Common Problems With Tree Philodendron

Stunted or Leggy Growth

As with most varieties of philodendron, the tree philodendron does not do well in low-light conditions. Lack of light leads to stunted or leggy growth. The leaves of a tree philodendron reach towards the closest light source, so it is best to regularly rotate the plant to maintain symmetrical growth.

Leaves with Crispy Edges

If you notice that the leaves of your plant are yellowing or developing crispy edges, this could be an indication that the plant needs higher humidity The most effective way to up the humidity in your home is a humidifier.