How To Grow A Split Leaf Philodendron

Split-leaf philodendrons (monstera deliciosa) are popular tropical houseplants with huge, unusual leaves. These plants may offer a jungle feel to any area and grow enormous with proper maintenance. how to grow a split leaf philodendron?

Split-leaf philodendrons provide many benefits. First, it purifies the air by eliminating formaldehyde and xylene. It might enhance room humidity for patients with dry skin or respiratory difficulties. They also improve mood and relieve stress, weariness, and anxiety.

This post covers watering, sunshine, and pruning for split-leaf philodendrons. This guide will help you grow a healthy monstera, whether a beginner or an expert. Let’s begin!

Understanding The Split Leaf Philodendron

Common Name	Split-leaf philodendron, Swiss cheese plant, or window leaf
Scientific Name	Monstera deliciosa
Family	Araceae
Plant Type	Houseplant
Genus and Species	Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum
Native Area	South America, namely Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Argentina
Maintenance	Low maintenance plant
Plant Size	Up to 10 feet (3 m) tall and 15 feet (4.5 m) wide, and  leaves can reach 3 feet (1 m)
Growth Rate	Slow-growing, they might take years to reach full size
Watering Requirements	Moderate watering
Soil Type	Airy and well-draining
Soil pH	5.0-6.0
Fertilizer Requirements	Apply an all-purpose, water-soluble fertilizer every two to three weeks
Exposure	Lots of bright indirect light to thrive
Pests & Diseases	Aphids, mealybugs, scales, and spider mites
Hardiness Zone	8-11

How To Grow A Split Leaf Philodendron

A popular houseplant, split-leaf Philodendron is easy to grow. Its rich greenery provides tropical charm to every space. To keep your split-leaf Philodendron healthy, follow these procedures. From fertilizer and pruning to lighting and watering. Steps to develop a split-leaf Philodendron:

Choosing The Right Location

When deciding where to put your split-leaf Philodendron, you should think about the following:

• Lighting: Split-leaf Philodendrons like indirect, bright light. They prefer indirect, intense light. Direct sunlight can burn leaves. A north or east-facing window with sheer curtains is ideal for the plant.
• Temperature: The plant prefers warm temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate a broader range of temperatures, but keeping them in a warm room for optimal growth and health is best.
• Humidity: Split-leaf Philodendrons like humidity, so if your home is dry, use a humidifier or place a water tray near the plant.
• Airflow: Good air circulation is essential for the plant’s health, so avoid placing it in a corner or a crowded room where air does not circulate well.
• Convenience: Keep the plant in a location that is easy to access for watering and maintenance.
• Decor: Keep in mind that the plant can grow quite large, so choose a location where it will have room to grow and not outgrow its surroundings.

Tips For Selecting The Right Size Pot

It’s crucial to select the correct size pot for your split-leaf Philodendron so that the plant can grow and stay healthy. Five things to consider before choosing a pot:

• Consider the plant’s root system size: The pot is large enough to accommodate the roots without crowding them but not so large that the soil stays too wet for too long.
• Choose a pot one size larger than the current pot: This will provide enough room for the roots to grow without becoming cramped.
• Ensure the pot has drainage holes: Drainage holes are essential to prevent water from standing in the bottom of the pot and causing root rot.
• Consider the plant’s growth rate: If the plant is a fast grower, choose a pot that will accommodate its growth for at least a year.
• Consider the aesthetic of the pot: Select a pot that complements the plant’s aesthetic and fits well in your living space.

Light And Temperature Requirements

Split leaf Philodendrons prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. They do not accept direct sunlight, which can cause leaf burn.

The ideal temperature range for growth is between 60-90°F (15-32°C). They can tolerate lower temperatures, but growth will slow down.

Observe the leaves when it comes to recognizing if the plant is getting too much or too little light. The leaves may get too little light if they are yellow and limp. The leaves may get too light if they are brown and crispy. If the leaves are green and perky, it’s getting the right amount of light.

Also, if the plant is growing taller or reaching for a light source, it isn’t getting enough light, and you should move it to a brighter spot.

Keep in mind that light requirements may vary depending on the plant’s growth stage. As a general rule, providing less light than more light is better, as light stress can cause irreparable damage.

Soil And Watering

The best type of soil for the split-leaf Philodendron is well-draining, moist soil rich in organic matter. A good mix combines peat moss, perlite, and potting soil.

As for watering, it’s essential to not over or underwater the plant. The watering frequency will depend on the humidity, temperature, and light levels in your home, the size of the pot, and the type of soil. Wait until the top inch of soil is dry to touch before watering again.

Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, mushy or rotten roots, and soil that is constantly wet or soggy. On the other hand, symptoms of under-watering include brown or crispy leaf edges, wilting, and dry soil.

It’s also essential to ensure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from standing in the bottom of the pot and causing root rot. Additionally, avoiding water on the leaves is recommended, as it can cause leaf spots and discoloration.

Pruning And Propagation

Pruning and propagation are essential aspects of keeping the plant healthy and vigorous.

Pruning: Split-leaf Philodendrons are pruned regularly to remove dead or yellow leaves and control the plant’s size and shape. Prune any time of the year using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Cut the leaf stem just above a leaf node (a bump on the stem where a leaf or new branch will grow).

Propagation: Split-leaf Philodendrons are easily propagated by rooting stem cuttings. The best time to take stem cuttings is during the warm months when the plant is actively growing.

Here are three techniques for propagating the plant:

• Stem Cuttings: Cut a stem at least 6 inches long, including a few leaves, and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder, then place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm and in a bright, indirect light.
• Air Layering: Air layering propagates a mature plant without removing it from its pot. Select a stem at least 1/2 inch in diameter, make a small incision on the branch, apply rooting hormone, then wrap the incision with moist sphagnum moss and plastic wrap. The new plant will form roots where the incision was made.
• Division: This method is suitable for larger plants. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and divide the root ball into several sections, each with several leaves and an adequate amount of roots. Replant each section in its pot.

Note: Keep soil moist, warm, and in bright, indirect light during propagation. Roots and new growth may take weeks or months.

Pests And Diseases

Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects are common pests that can hurt Split Leaf Philodendrons. These bugs carry illnesses and destroy plant leaves and stems.

• Spider mites: Spider-like creatures that live under plants. They tint leaves yellow. To prevent spider mites, water the plant and check for them. Pesticide-treated spider mites.
• Mealybugs: Small, white, cottony insects live on the plant’s leaves and stems. Yellow leaf disfigurement. Check for mealybugs. Manually or pesticide-treated mealybugs.
• Scale insects: Small, hard-shelled insects live on plant leaves and stems. They disfigure yellow leaves. Regularly check the plant for scale insects. Scale insects are handled or pesticide-treated.
• Diseases: Split Leaf Philodendrons can also have bacterial leaf spots and stem rot. Bacterial leaf spots cause brown or black patches on the leaves, while stem rot makes the stem mushy and discolored. Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage to prevent these diseases. Remove diseased plant sections and apply a fungicide.

How To Prevent And Treat Pests And Diseases?

Preventing and treating pests and diseases on Split Leaf Philodendrons is done through cultural practices, monitoring, and targeted treatments.

Cultural practices:

• Provide the plant with appropriate light, temperature, and humidity conditions
• Avoid overcrowding, which can lead to increased pest pressure.
• Use well-draining soil
• Keep the plant’s area clean.
• Regularly check the plant for pests and diseases.

Monitoring:

• Check the plant regularly for signs of pests, such as webbing, discolored leaves, or sticky residue.
• Check for any signs of disease, such as brown or black spots on the leaves, mushy stems, or discoloration.

Treatment:

• If pests are found, remove them manually, and use horticultural oil, insecticidal soap, neem oil, or other appropriate pesticides.
• If diseases are found, remove any affected plant parts, improve growing conditions, and use a fungicide according to the label instructions.

Common Problems And Solutions 

Common issues when growing a Split Leaf Philodendron include yellowing leaves, brown leaf tips, wilting leaves, and slow growth.

• Yellowing leaves: Yellow leaves are caused by a lack of light or overwatering. To prevent this, ensure the plant gets enough light and allow the soil to dry out before watering again. If yellow leaves occur, remove them from the plant and ensure it is getting enough light.
• Brown leaf tips: Brown leaves are caused by low humidity or dry air. A humidifier or tray of water can avoid this. Trim brown leaf tips and keep the plant moist.
• Wilting leaves: Wilting leaves are caused by a lack of water or poor drainage. To prevent this, ensure the plant is getting enough water and check the pot’s drainage to ensure that the plant is not sitting in water if wilting leaves occur, water the plant and check the pot’s drainage.
• Slow growth: Slow growth is caused by a lack of nutrients or light. To prevent this, fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer and ensure it gets enough light. If slow growth occurs, fertilize the plant and ensure it is getting enough light.

Most Commonly Asked Questions

Is Philodendron Indoor Or Outdoor Plant?

Philodendron is an indoor plant. It comes from tropical parts of the Americas and likes to live in warm, damp places. Most people grow them as houseplants, and you can find them in many homes and offices. You can also grow them outside in tropical or subtropical climates, but they can’t handle frost or temperatures below freezing. Because of this, it’s best to keep them inside and ensure they have enough light, heat, and moisture to grow.

Are Split Leaf Philodendrons Easy To Grow?

Split Leaf Philodendrons are low-maintenance and adaptable. Like any plant, they need light, temperature, humidity, and water to flourish.

Split Leaf Philodendrons are ideal houseplants because they can tolerate low light and various indoor conditions. They prefer warm, humid temperatures and well-draining soil.

They can thrive without water or light, making them neglect-tolerant. For optimum outcomes, give the plant the right growing conditions and monitor it for stress.

Can I Start A Split-leaf Philodendron From A Leaf?

Leaf-cutting is a challenging and inconsistent way to grow Split-leaf Philodendrons. New roots and leaves take a long time to grow, and the success rate could be higher. Stem cuttings, air-layering, and division are more successful and faster ways to develop a new plant. Thus, Split-leaf Philodendrons are not started from leaves.

Can Split-leaf Philodendron Be In Full Sun?

Split-leaf Philodendrons want bright, indirect light but not full sun. Sunlight can burn the plant’s leaves. In warm weather, plant your Split-leaf Philodendron under a tree or a covered porch for filtered light. If it’s in full sun, relocate it or screen it.

How Can I Make My Philodendron Grow Faster?

Here are a few tips to help your Philodendron grow faster:

• Provide the right light: Philodendrons prefer bright, indirect light. Place your plant where it will receive bright, indirect light for at least 6 hours daily.
• Keep the temperature and humidity consistent: Philodendrons prefer temperatures between 60-85°F (15-30°C) and humidity levels between 40-70%.
• Watering: Make sure the soil is always moist but not soggy. Water again once the top inch of soil dries off.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize your Philodendron with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Pruning: Prune your Philodendron regularly to promote bushier growth and remove any damaged or yellowed leaves.
• Repotting: Repot your Philodendron when it becomes pot-bound, usually once a year, and make sure to use well-draining potting soil.
• Keep the plant healthy: Keep an eye on it and ensure it’s getting the right conditions to grow. To help your Philodendron thrive, address indicators of stress or distress, including yellowing leaves, brown leaf tips, wilting leaves, slow growth, pests, or disease.

Conclusion

Growing a Split Leaf Philodendron is an easy way to bring some tropics into your home. These plants require light, warmth, humidity, and water. Monitor stress, fertilize, and frequently prune to keep the plant healthy. A Split Leaf Philodendron can bring tropical splendor indoors with proper care.