What is Tree Philodendron?
Tree philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum) is a large, vining plant native to tropical regions of South America. It has heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 3 feet long and 2 feet wide. The foliage is usually green, but some varieties have variegated colors such as white, yellow or pink. Although tree philodendrons are typically grown indoors in containers, they can be propagated outdoors if the climate permits it.
Propagating Tree Philodendron
Tree philodendrons are easy to propagate from stem cuttings taken from existing plants. This method of propagation will produce plants with the same characteristics as their parent plant. To start, choose an existing healthy tree philodendron and take several 4-inch long stem cuttings with at least two sets of leaves on each cutting. Remove any lower leaves near the bottom end of the cutting so there will be no competition for moisture with new roots forming in the soil mix below it.
Once you’ve taken your cuttings, dip them into a root hormone powder or use a rooting gel and then place them in moistened potting soil mixed with perlite or vermiculite for better drainage. The container should have good drainage holes at the bottom and should not allow water to stand for too long in order to avoid root rot caused by fungi or bacteria buildup in standing water which could kill your newly rooted plantlets before they even had a chance! Keep your container in indirect sunlight and mist regularly until new growth appears which takes between four to six weeks depending on temperature and humidity levels within your home environment – once this occurs you know that successful rooting has occurred! Once mature enough transplant into individual pots filled with fresh potting soil containing additional perlite/vermiculite mixture for best results when planting out doors later on down the line!
Caring For Your Propagated Tree Philondrons
Once planted outside provide ample space around each individually potted specimen as they tend towards larger widths than heights as they age –so give yourself plenty room when planning out how many specimens you’d like along boundaries etcetera before committing (as well as being mindful where distances between walkways won’t be obstructed by eventual sizes). Plant in loamy soils providing adequate nutrition such as nitrogen & phosphorous & supplementing occasionally throughout year– particularly during warmer months when more frequent watering & fertilization become necessary; also ensure proper hydration through regular deep soakings during summertime heat waves (but never over saturate!). As far pests go these are generally quite resilient but watch out especially due those pesky aphids who love their sap – keep an eye out & treat quickly if spotted! They do however benefit immensely from periodic pruning– encouraging bushier more vibrant growth while maintaining desired shape– don’ts forget this step every few years otherwise left untrimmed branches may begin crowding themselves leaving insufficient light reaching inner parts resulting lackluster foliage!!
