Philodendron bipennifolium, also known as the horsehead philodendron, is an easy-to-grow and low-maintenance plant that can add an exotic touch to any indoor or outdoor space. With its large, glossy leaves and striking form, this South American native is a favorite of gardeners and plant enthusiasts alike. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the best ways to grow and care for your Philodendron bipennifolium, including pot type, soil type, light and water requirements, fertilizer, and propagation techniques.
Pot Type for Philodendron Bipennifolium
When selecting a pot for your horsehead philodendron, choose a container that is at least two inches wider than the root ball of your plant. A pot with drainage holes is essential to prevent overwatering and root rot, but if you can’t find one that suits your decorative style, consider drilling a few holes into the bottom of a decorative pot. Clay or terra cotta pots are excellent choices as they aid in wicking moisture away from the soil, and they suit the tropical aesthetic of the plant.
Soil Type
Philodendron bipennifolium thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A combination of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal for potting your philodendron. Be sure to avoid soils that are heavy in sand or clay, as these types of soil hold onto water much longer than philodendrons prefer.
Light Requirements
Philodendron bipennifolium prefers bright, indirect light. If grown in direct sunlight, it will suffer from leaf scorch or even death. For best results, place your plant near a window that receives bright, but filtered light. If you’re growing your philodendron indoors, fluorescent lights or grow lights are useful to supplement natural light.
Watering your Philodendron Bipennifolium
It is essential to water your philodendron bipennifolium correctly. When the top inch of soil is dry to the touch, it is time to water your plant deeply. Water until water begins to drain from the bottom of the pot, but ensure you don’t let the pot sit in standing water. Overwatering could lead to root rot; therefore, it is crucial to stick to a regular watering schedule, being sure not to exceed watering a few times per week.
Fertilizer Needs
Philodendron bipennifolium requires regular fertilizer to thrive. Feeding your plant every three to four weeks during the growing season (spring through fall) with a balanced water-soluble fertilizer provides the necessary nutrients it needs to develop healthy new growth. Always ensure that the potting mix is moist before fertilization. In winter, the plant’s plant’s metabolic processes slow, so avoid fertilization during this period.
Propagating your Philodendron Bipennifolium
Propagation of philodendron bipennifolium is straightforward and reliable. To propagate your plant, take cuttings that measure around six inches in length and include two to three leaves. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone to aid in root development and plant the cutting in a mixture of peat and perlite.
Happy Gardening!
Philodendron bipennifolium is an excellent plant for both novice and experienced gardeners. With the correct pot type, soil type, light and water requirements, fertilizer, and propagation techniques, you’ll enjoy this tropical beauty thriving in your indoor or outdoor space. Whether grown in a hanging basket or planted in the ground, philodendron bipennifolium is a stunning and low-maintenance addition to any garden.
Please be sure to check out my Gardening Blog Post Page for more tips on all types of gardening. Including Seed Saving, Seed Starting, Orchids, Water Gardening, Coldframe Gardening, Indoor Bulb Gardening, Hydroponics, Container Gardening, Mums, Herbs, African Violets, planting Bulbs, Flower Gardening, Vegetable and Fruit Gardening, Indoor Houseplants of all kinds, Cactus, Succulents, Hanging plants, Deer resistant plants and even Bird, Bee, Butterfly and Hummingbird Gardens!