Heartleaf philodendron is an attractive plant found in offices and homes throughout the United States. Philodendron heartleaf care is so easy that even novice plant parents can grow them. In this article, we'll look at the characteristics of the plant and figure out what conditions your cutie philodendron needs.
Basics
Philodendron is a genus that belongs to the family Araceae. Not all the species of this plant are suitable for growing indoors, but Heartleaf philodendron is one of the varieties you can enjoy as a houseplant. It is an evergreen flowering perennial plant. As a houseplant, the philodendron is grown for its leaves. The flowering is modest and does not attract much attention.
Its leaves are small, leathery, heart-shaped, and can reach 8-15 cm long and 5-10 cm wide. The plant has dark green leaves and is one of the most shade-tolerant species. In addition, it is the most compact cultivar of philodendron. Outwardly, it is very similar to Scindapsus, but the leaves are much thinner and more tender.
Watering
The substrate for any philodendron should always be slightly moist regardless of species. Each subsequent watering is carried out after 1-2 cm of the substrate at the top of the pot dries out. And this rule is true for both summer and winter. But since the rate of drying and consumption of moisture by the plant will differ, the watering frequency will change significantly. Watering is reduced at low room temperatures; however, remember that “reduce” doesn't mean to cut off the watering.
Even though it is a moisture-loving plant, excessive watering can lead to leaf and root problems. If the plant is overwatered, heartleaf philodendron yellow leaves may appear. The soil becomes too dense and does not allow the roots to breathe. In such conditions, the roots may rot in a short time.
Temperature
The optimum temperature range for all philodendron species is 71-86˚F (22-30°C). When reaching critical temperatures of 100˚F (38˚C) and higher, you must always keep the soil moist. To prevent the philodendron from overheating, spray and wash its leaves with water.
In winter, with a decrease in daylight hours, replace a plant to a cooler place with the temps of 64-72˚F (18-22°C), but not lower than 59˚F (15°C). The temperature of the soil and air must be the same. Heartleaf philodendron can't stand cold windows. Also, do not place any heating devices near these plants; protect them from air conditioners and even ventilation in cold weather.
Lighting
Choose the right place for the philodendron, and it will delight you with its lush and beautiful foliage. Philodendron heartleaf does not belong to shade-loving plants. It thrives in bright, diffused light. Avoid direct sunlight on the plant; otherwise, the leaves may burn.
When choosing a place in the room for the philodendron, try not to move too far from the window and stay within locations with good lighting. In the rooms on the east side, plants are placed near the window; on the south, they can be placed closer to the corners.
Soil
Most philodendrons require slightly acidic or neutral soil, and it must be water- and air-permeable. The pot should be spacious enough, and the bottom must have drainage holes. Heartleaf philodendron soil should be loose with the addition of top peat and agents such as vermiculite, crushed pine bark, moss, fine twig fall, and gravel. If you can't find suitable soil, you can use a ready-made potting mix for violets or orchids, including charcoal, sphagnum moss, peat, and bark.
FAQ
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How to propagate heartleaf philodendron?
Mainly, vegetative propagation of philodendron is used. The optimal time for heartleaf philodendron propagation is spring and summer. The cut should be covered with sulfur or charcoal to avoid rotting in a humid environment. Choose plant areas that have already formed aerial roots because they are suitable for grafting.
For better rooting, use light soils. A good composition is a mixture of garden soil with sand and vermiculite. Before planting the cuttings, the ground is moistened. For quick rooting, use a cover of a polyethylene film or a cut plastic cylinder. Covering is periodically removed to get rid of the condensate. After rooting, transplant philodendrons to a more nutritious soil.
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When to repot heartleaf philodendron?
Don't rush with replanting philodendrons. Green heartleaf philodendrons belong to indoor crops that do not need annual repotting, even at a young age. The growth rate of the above-ground parts does not always match their root growth. Increasing the pot size when transplanting by 3-4 cm ensures that the philodendron will only need to be transplanted in a year. And older plants can also be repotted once every 3 years.
Replace about 5 cm of the top of the substrate once a year if a plant doesn't need repotting.
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Is heartleaf philodendron dangerous for cats?
Yes. Philodendron has severe effects on pets, leading to seizures, pain, and swelling. It is more toxic to cats than dogs. The plant tissue contains calcium oxalate crystals that are poisonous to humans and animals. It is undesirable to grow it in apartments with children. Thus, use gloves for any manipulations with the plant.
Heartleaf Philodendron, commonly known as the Sweetheart Plant, will definitely become your crush and a bright decoration for any interior. Since it is a hanging plant, there are numerous ways to style it into your room: on the shelves, in hanging pots, or on the table – use your imagination. Pretty and undemanding, philodendron remains one of the most popular houseplants: we advise you to get yourself one ASAP.
