Reticulated Philodendron

It’s important to ensure your reticulated philodendron is hydrated and the soil stays moist, but it’s very easy to overwater this plant. Therefore, it’s best to water your plants when the top soil is dry, using lukewarm water. During the winter season you might need to water your plants less, since the plants are dormant. If the leaves start to droop, it’s safe to give some water.

Reticulated philodendron loves bright, indirect light, but they can tolerate lower light areas. Avoid direct sunlight as this can cause damage to the leaves and shock the plant. Move your plant gradually, giving it time to adjust to new lighting conditions, to avoid any leaf burn.

Reticulated philodendron prefers temperatures between 70°F (21°C) to 85°F (29°C). They're not suitable for drafty areas, so protect them from any sudden drops in temperature, especially during the winter months. Too cold temperatures can also cause damage to the foliage.

Reticulated philodendron thrive in humidity, and will do best in humid environments. Provide enough humidity for your plant by misting regularly, displaying near other plants, using a humidifier, spritzing with water, or placing on a pebble tray.

Fertile, well-draining forests soils are preferred for reticulated philodendrons. When planting, mix equal parts potting soil, peat moss or coco coir, and perlite/vermiculite to ensure water easily passes through the soil. A soil pH of 5.5 - 6.5 is ideal for these plants.

Fertilizing philodendrons should be done every month during the growth period (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 during these months. During the resting phase of autumn and winter, hold off on the fertilizing and opt for nitrogen free fertilizer every other month. Miracle-Gro and Peters are two great brands for fertilizing your reticulated philodendron.

Reticulated philodendrons are susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, and thrips. To identify if your plant has pests, look for signs like unusual webbing on the under-leaf and white prickly blobs (which is silk webbing produced by spider mites). To get rid of them, use a dampened cloth or a cotton bud dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the leaves of mealybugs or aphids. Neem oil and insecticidal soaps are also good options for getting rid of mealybugs and aphids.

Repotting should be done once every couple of years in spring, when the reticulated philodendron outgrow its pot. Repotting also helps to refresh existing soil. When enlarging the pot size, go up one size to prevent the plant from becoming root-bound. Use soil that is lightweight and well-draining for best results.

Pruning is very important in keeping your reticulated philodendron healthy. Pruning should be done at the beginning of each season. Before you start pruning, make sure to wear gloves to protect yourself from the spines. Pruning any dead foliage, pest infested areas, and brown tips will encourage new growth. Make sure to leave at least two nodes on the stem when making the cut, as this will help stimulate new growth.

Mulching reticulated philodendron is beneficial as this helps retain the moisture in the soil. The best material for mulching would be bark mulch, leaf mulch, or coco coir. Make sure the soil is slightly dry before mulching and replace the mulch once every two or three months.

Propagation for reticulated philodendron can be done by stem cuttings or air layering. Take stem cuttings during the spring or summer months and plant them in soil. Keep the soil moist and mist the cuttings frequently. Air layering involves creating a shallow wound or notch in the stem and wrapping it with a wet material like sphagnum moss. After several weeks, roots should start to form.

Reticulated philodendrons are a vigorous climber and can grow up to 13 feet tall. If you want to contain the growth of the plant, you can get a moss pole or a sturdy branch to provide support for your plant as it grows vertically.

Reticulated philodendrons prefer humid climates and do not require a dormancy phase. However, when temperatures and light levels decrease in autumn and winter months, some foliage may yellow and the plant may enter a sleep or rest period. Avoid increasing the amount of fertilizer you keep the soil evenly moist, and hold back any intense pruning. The plant will become active and the new growth will be visible in the warm weather.

Reticulated philodendrons are toxic to cats and dogs and care should be taken to ensure these pets do not ingest them. If ingested, symptoms may include vomiting, drooling, and loss of appetite.