Methods and Precautions for Cultivating Philodendron
This article focuses on the cultivation methods and precautions for Philodendron, as well as the differences between Philodendron and Epipremnum aureum in the field of horticulture. The editor of this site will introduce the information to netizens.
Philodendron, also known as Heartleaf Philodendron, is a perennial herbaceous vine belonging to the Araceae family. Not only does it have an attractive shape, but it also has a strong air purification ability, earning the name "air purifier." It has excellent adsorption capabilities for toxins and harmful substances in the air. The leaves of Philodendron are glossy and green, and they have a relatively regular heart shape, giving off a romantic and cozy appearance. However, the soil cultivation of Philodendron is quite challenging and complex. In contrast, hydroponic cultivation is simpler and more aesthetically pleasing, making it more beautiful and easier to care for than Epipremnum aureum, with superior air purification abilities. Next, AYong will explain the detailed steps for hydroponic cultivation of Philodendron.
Step One: Choose the Right Time for Cutting
If you want to propagate Philodendron through hydroponic cuttings, you first need to choose the right time. Philodendron prefers a relatively warm environment. The main difference between hydroponic and soil cultivation is that hydroponic environments have lower temperatures and higher humidity, with water evaporation and loss carrying away a significant amount of heat. Therefore, when propagating Philodendron hydroponically, it is best to choose a warm season to ensure faster root germination and higher success rates for cuttings.
Suggestion: The best time for hydroponic propagation of Philodendron is from May to September every year. Avoid propagating in winter and early spring when temperatures are too low, which can easily cause frostbite and prevent root growth.
Step Two: Container and Water Quality Selection
The only requirement for the container used to propagate Philodendron is that it must be transparent. A transparent container makes it easy to observe the root growth of Philodendron and allows the lower part of its stems to receive some scattered light, which is beneficial for root germination. Of course, the cleanliness of the container is also essential and must be thoroughly cleaned and preferably disinfected with a carbendazim solution before use.
For the water used in hydroponic propagation, we have three options, and it's best to avoid using tap water and well water directly.
1. The best water for propagating Philodendron is natural water sources such as river or lake water, which are rich in nutrients, have low hardness, and contain a high number of microorganisms, all of which are beneficial for root growth. However, AYong reminds everyone that due to the high level of environmental pollution, make sure to collect water away from pollution sources.
2. Using purified or mineral water for propagation also has a high success rate. Purified water has minimal pollution and is clean, with a higher content of minerals and trace elements, which is beneficial for the growth and survival of Philodendron, but it can be costly.
3. If you want convenience, you can also use tap water that has been exposed to sunlight for 1-2 days. This allows the disinfectants in the water to volatilize, increasing the oxygen content, after which it can be used for propagation.
Methods and Precautions for Cultivating Philodendron
Step Three: Select Healthy Stems without Pests and Diseases for Cuttings
To successfully propagate a Philodendron, the selection and preparation of cuttings are very important. If the cuttings chosen have pests and diseases or are weak and萎靡, the success rate of propagation will be very low, and the possibility of root growth is minimal. Therefore, when initially preparing cuttings, it is essential to choose healthy stems from the parent plant that have green and intact leaves without any sign of pests or diseases.
After selecting the stems, cut them with a sharp and disinfected pair of scissors, remove the leaves from the bottom of the stem, cut the cut end at a 45-degree angle, then apply or soak the cut end in a carbendazim solution for disinfection before propagating.
Step Four: Planting and Setting up a Support Structure
The previous three steps can be considered as the preparation for propagating Philodendron. Once the preparations are done, we can start planting. Add 2/3 water to the container, then insert the Philodendron into the container, making sure to remove all leaves from the part submerged in water.
After planting, we need to set up a support structure for the Philodendron. Philodendron has a strong climbing ability and can only grow healthily and quickly with something to climb on. The support structure can be made of bamboo, wire, or wooden frames and can be placed against a wall or window, allowing the plant to grow along the wall.
Step Five: After-Propagation Care
After propagation, what we need to pay attention to is the post-propagation care, which is crucial for the healthy survival and rapid growth of Philodendron. We need to be particularly vigilant, and the post-propagation care of Philodendron mainly involves controlling five aspects.
1. Get plenty of sun, but avoid direct sunlight
Philodendron requires a significant amount of light, especially during its growing season, spring and autumn, when it needs to be provided with full sun or at least placed on a balcony or windowsill. In the summer, when the sun is too intense, the plant's large, green leaves may be threatened, so we need to provide shade to ensure that the Philodendron only receives morning and evening弱 sunlight. In winter, our primary concern is to keep the plant warm, and on that basis, to provide it with more sunlight.