Philodendron

Easy: Low Maintenance

Thanks to their adaptability, fast growth, and stunning leaves—ranging from glossy hearts to velvety lobes—philodendrons make excellent indoor plants for both beginners and enthusiasts alike.

Light Requirements:

Philodendrons are tropical, but they don’t want to be burned alive. They like bright, indirect light, but will also survive in medium or even low light—just don’t expect them to thrive in a windowless dungeon.

• Best light for philodendron plants: Bright, indirect sunlight
• Okay with: Medium light, filtered light
• Avoid: Harsh direct sun (crispy leaves alert!) and super dark corners

Vining types will stretch toward the light if it’s too low, while self-heading types may become leggy or lose their shape. So, maybe scooch them closer to the window—but not in it.

Watering a Philodendron: It’s a “Sometimes” Thing

Here’s the thing: your philodendron wants a drink, but not a bath. These plants like their soil to dry out a bit between waterings. Stick your finger in the soil (or be fancy with a moisture meter). If the top inch or two is dry, you’re good to water.

• Watering frequency: Every 7–10 days in summer; less often in winter
• Signs of overwatering: Yellow leaves, root rot, soggy soil
• Signs of underwatering: Wilting, curling leaves, dramatic pouting (okay, not really)

Pro tip: Drainage holes are non-negotiable. If your pot doesn’t have one, it’s a vase. And your plant deserves better.

Temperature & Humidity: Warm, Moist, and Tropical (Get Your Mind Out of the Gutter)

Philodendrons are not fans of extremes. Keep it comfy and they’ll reward you with rapid growth and lush foliage.

• Ideal temperature range: 65–80°F (18–27°C)
• Humidity: They like humidity, but won’t die without it

If your house is super dry (looking at you, winter radiator heat), consider a pebble tray or a humidifier. Or just move your philodendron into your steamy post-shower bathroom. They’ll thank you with shinier leaves.

Soil Type: Light, rich potting mix with peat and perlite

Extra Info: These guys are chill. Give them a well-aerated mix and they'll grow like they're on a mission. Just don’t let them sit in water, or they’ll ghost you.

Here’s the not-so-great news: philodendron plants are not pet safe. They contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can be toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.

Symptoms of philodendron poisoning in pets may include:

• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Oral irritation
• Difficulty swallowing

To keep pets safe, place your philodendron out of reach or opt for pet-friendly houseplants like spider plants, calatheas, or prayer plants.

Philodendron plants love to be the center of attention, so choose their spot wisely. They want enough light to grow but not so much that their leaves sizzle.

Best places for philodendrons:

• Near east or north-facing windows
• In bright bathrooms (hello, humidity!)
• On a bookshelf or plant stand with filtered sunlight
• Hanging from the ceiling (vining types love to drape dramatically)

Avoid drafty windows, air vents, or any place where the temperature swings like a mood ring.

Philodendron Maintenance: The Lazy Plant Parent’s Dream

Philodendrons are surprisingly low-fuss when it comes to grooming. Still, a little maintenance goes a long way.

Pruning and Cleaning

• Prune: Cut leggy or unruly growth back to a node (that’s the little bump where leaves and roots grow).
• Clean: Wipe dusty leaves with a damp cloth so your plant can breathe—and, you know, look good on Instagram.

Pruning also encourages bushier growth, so don’t be shy with those snips.