Hanging philodendron plants are a beautiful way to bring lush, trailing greenery into your home. With their cascading vines and easy-going nature, they make a perfect addition to shelves, hooks, or hanging planters.
But what’s the best way to display them – and how can you keep them thriving while they hang?
Let’s explore the key tips for growing and styling a hanging philodendron.
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Easy Philodendron Care Guide 💚
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💧 Water: Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Philodendrons prefer evenly moist soil but don’t tolerate sitting in water.
🌱 Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix - I personally use this potting mix. A mix with peat or perlite, like this one, helps retain moisture without waterlogging the roots.
☀️ Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal, but most Philodendrons can adapt to lower light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.
🌡️ Temperature: Keep your Philodendron in a room between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Protect it from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
🌿 Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (my top pick is this Miracle-Gro one) once a month during spring and summer. Skip feeding in fall and winter.
1. Use well-draining soil
Proper soil is crucial for your hanging philodendron’s health. Well-draining soil prevents water from pooling around the roots, which can lead to rot. You’ll want to choose a potting mix that’s light and airy.
A good mix for philodendrons includes peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark. These ingredients allow excess water to flow through while retaining enough moisture for the plant.
You can find pre-made mixes at garden centers or create your own.
When potting your philodendron, make sure the container has drainage holes. This lets extra water escape and keeps the soil from becoming waterlogged. With the right soil, you’ll give your hanging philodendron the best start for healthy growth.
2. Choose a bright spot
Philodendrons thrive in bright, indirect light. Pick a spot near a window that gets plenty of sunshine throughout the day. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
A north or east-facing window is often ideal for hanging philodendrons. These locations provide gentle morning light and consistent brightness without harsh afternoon rays.
If you only have south or west-facing windows, place your plant a few feet away from the glass or use sheer curtains to filter the light.
Keep an eye on your philodendron’s leaves to gauge if it’s getting enough light. Pale or yellowing leaves may indicate too much sun, while slow growth and small leaves can signal insufficient light. Adjust your plant’s position as needed to find the perfect balance.
3. Feed with liquid fertilizer
Liquid fertilizer is essential for your hanging philodendron’s growth. You’ll want to apply it every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
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Choose a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and dilute it to half strength. Always water your plant before feeding to prevent root burn.
Pour the fertilizer solution evenly around the soil, avoiding the leaves and stems. Don’t overdo it – too much fertilizer can harm your plant.
In winter, reduce fertilizing to once every 6-8 weeks. This matches the plant’s slower growth during colder months.
Keep an eye on your philodendron’s leaves – yellowing might mean it’s time to cut back on feeding.
4. Water consistently
Consistent watering is crucial for your hanging philodendron’s health. You’ll need to find the right balance – not too much, not too little.
Check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch feels dry. When doing so, use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant’s roots.
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot. Empty the drainage tray promptly to prevent root rot.
In warmer months, you might need to water more often. During winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant’s growth slows down. Pay attention to your philodendron’s leaves – drooping can indicate it needs a drink.
5. Use a humidifier nearby
Hanging philodendrons love humidity. A humidifier can help create the perfect environment for your plant to thrive. Place one near your philodendron to boost moisture levels in the air.
Higher humidity helps prevent leaf tips from turning brown. It also promotes lush, healthy growth. Your philodendron will thank you with bigger, greener leaves.
Aim for humidity levels between 60-80% for optimal results. You can use a hygrometer to monitor the moisture in the air. If you don’t have a humidifier, try grouping plants together or using a pebble tray with water.
6. Prune regularly
Regular pruning is crucial for maintaining a healthy and attractive hanging philodendron. You’ll want to trim away any yellow, brown, or damaged leaves as soon as you spot them. This helps the plant focus its energy on new growth and prevents the spread of diseases.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts close to the stem. Don’t forget to remove any long, leggy vines to encourage bushier growth. Pruning also gives you a chance to shape your plant and control its size.
Remember to sanitize your tools before and after pruning to avoid spreading pathogens between plants. A quick wipe with rubbing alcohol will do the trick.
By keeping up with regular pruning, you’ll ensure your hanging philodendron stays lush and vibrant year-round.
7. Rotate the plant for even growth
Rotating your hanging philodendron regularly promotes balanced growth. Turn the pot a quarter turn every week to ensure all sides receive equal light exposure.
This simple habit prevents the plant from leaning or growing lopsided. In particular, uneven growth can occur when one side of the plant gets more light than others.
You’ll notice longer stems and larger leaves on the side facing the light source. By rotating the plant, you’re giving each section a chance to bask in the brightest spots.
Don’t forget to adjust the plant’s position after watering or pruning. These activities can change its weight distribution, so a quick rotation helps maintain its shape. Remember, consistent rotation leads to a fuller, more symmetrical philodendron that’s sure to catch everyone’s eye.
8. Avoid direct sunlight
Philodendrons thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves and stunt growth. Place your hanging philodendron near a window with filtered light or in a spot that receives reflected light.
If you notice yellowing or browning leaves, your plant might be getting too much sun. Move it to a shadier area and monitor its progress. Remember, these tropical beauties evolved under dense forest canopies.
You can use sheer curtains or blinds to diffuse harsh light coming through windows. This creates an ideal environment for your philodendron to flourish without the risk of sun damage.
9. Check for pests often
Regular pest inspections are crucial for your hanging philodendron’s health. You’ll want to look closely at the leaves, stems, and soil every week.
Common pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale can quickly infest your plant if left unchecked. Look for tiny webs, white fuzzy spots, or sticky residue on the leaves.
These are telltale signs of pest problems. If you spot any issues, act fast to prevent the infestation from spreading.
Treat affected areas with neem oil or insecticidal soap. You can also wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove pests. Remember to isolate infected plants from others to stop the problem from getting worse.
10. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth
Regularly wiping your hanging philodendron’s leaves keeps them clean and healthy. Use a soft, damp cloth to gently remove dust and debris from both sides of each leaf. This simple task helps the plant breathe better and absorb more light.
Aim to clean your philodendron’s leaves every few weeks or when you notice they’re getting dusty. Be careful not to press too hard or use anything abrasive that could damage the leaves. For stubborn dirt, you can add a drop of mild soap to your damp cloth.
Cleaning the leaves also gives you a chance to inspect your plant for any signs of pests or disease. Look out for discoloration, spots, or tiny bugs while you’re wiping. Catching problems early makes them easier to treat.
11. Support with a moss pole
A moss pole can help your hanging philodendron grow taller and fuller. It mimics the natural support the plant would find in its native habitat. Attaching your philodendron to a moss pole encourages it to climb and develop larger leaves.
To set up a moss pole, choose one that’s sturdy and tall enough for your plant. Place it in the pot, making sure it’s secure. Gently tie the main stem to the pole using soft plant ties or twine.
As your philodendron grows, guide new stems towards the pole. The aerial roots will eventually attach themselves, allowing the plant to climb naturally. Keep the moss pole moist to provide extra humidity for your plant.
Remember to adjust the ties as your philodendron grows to prevent them from cutting into the stem. With proper support, you’ll soon have a thriving, upright philodendron that’s both beautiful and space-saving.