A perfect watering routine is important for a pink princess to stay healthy and happy. Both over-watering and under-watering can cause severe damage to the plant. So to make your pink princess flaunt its gorgeous variegation go through this post thoroughly.
Here, I have shared the perfect watering schedule for a philodendron pink princess and all other related information. So, unveil the secrets to the perfect watering routine.
How Do You Understand Your Pink Princess is Thirsty?
This stunning philodendron variety is considered a show-stopper of the plant world. With their beautiful variegated leaves, a pink princess is popular among gardeners. Being a tropical plant the watering needs of this plant is different from others.
Unlike all other philodendron varieties, a pink princess prefers to grow in soggy soil. However, it does not mean they want to swim all the time. Both Too much and too little water are not good for the plant.
So, it is important to understand when your beloved plant is thirsty and provide water accordingly. Overwatering can cause root rot as their roots are like tiny sponges that should not be soaked constantly. So, it is important to check the moisture level of the soil before watering.
What Are the Signs That Your Pink Princess Needs Water?
You will notice different signs that will make you understand that your pink princess is really thirsty or overwatered. Being a diva she has her ways of expressing her needs. Here, are some of them.
Under Watering
Droopy leaves: show your plant is under-watered and is actually thirsty. You will notice the leaves to be deflated, hanging down, and limp.
Leaf Edges Becoming Crispy: Too-dry soil can make the edges of the leaves to be crispy and brown. This affects the beautiful look of the plant and makes it ugly.
Slower Growth Rate: Without enough water, the growth of a pink princess can get stuck. So, if you notice the plant to appear stagnant without new leaves then, make sure it is thirsty.
Overwatering
Check the Soil:
- Excessive water can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases, so checking the moisture level of the soil before watering is necessary.
- To check out for the moisture levels insert your finger into the soil about an inch deep.
- If you feel the soil to be completely dry then, only water the plant.
How to Make Watering Adjustments With the Change in Season?
To keep your pink princess happy and healthy throughout the year watering adjustments are necessary with changes in seasons. Here are some ways to adjust your watering routine.
Summer and Spring
Summer and spring are the growing season of a philodendron. So, to put on new growth this plant needs to rehydrate more often. Watering every 7 to 10 days during this period can be helpful for the plant.
However, if your pink princess is getting a lot of indirect bright light then, the soil will dry out faster. So, in this situation watering should be done every 5 to 7 days to prevent the plant from getting parched.
Fall and Winter
The temperatures drop as the days get shorter. Also, the growth rate of a pink princess slows down during these seasons. Watering every 2 to 3 weeks during fall and winter can be enough as the plant does not need much water during this time.
How to Create a Watering Routine for a Pink Princess?
Developing a proper watering routine makes your plant happy and healthy without much effort. Here are some ways to water your beloved plant like a pro.
Check the Soil
To maintain your plant’s overall health it is always suggested to check the moisture level of the top 2 inches of the soil before watering. Too much watering can cause several issues.
Avoid Over-watering
To prevent waterlogging and root rot you need to make sure that the pot where the philodendron has been placed has enough drainage holes. These holes will drain away excess water giving your pink princess a nice and thorough spa day.
No Need to Use Fancy Stuff
Using regular tap water is perfectly fine when watering a pink princess. However, for that extra fancy feeling, you can also use filtered or room-temperature water. Collecting rainwater and using it to water your philodendron can be a good option.
What Are the Factors Affecting Watering Needs?
Watering frequency can also be influenced by some outside forces. Here are some of them.
Amount of Light
If the plant is kept in any place with intense indirect bright light then, it would need more water as the soil dries out faster. On the other hand, if the pink princess is placed in a shady corner it will drink less water. If you want more information on placing Pink Princess read this: Where to Place Your Pink Princess Philodendron?
Temperature
Water evaporates faster during hot days which can make your pink princess get thirsty more often. So, higher temperature means frequent watering. In cooler weather, the plant needs less hydration and thus, the water party slows down.
Size and Material the Pot is Made of
Using bigger pots can reduce your frequency of watering as these pots can hold more water and prevent the soil from drying out faster. Glazed ceramic pots are not as porous as terracotta pots thus, do not dry out faster. Here is some additional information on the best pots that you might find helpful: Best Pots for Growing Healthy Philodendrons
Potting Mix
Using a good potting mix suitable for your pink princess matters a lot. A dense, moisture-retentive potting mix holds water for longer. However, a chunky well-draining mix dries out quickly and allows air circulation.
Tips for Watering a Pink Princess Like a Pro
The bonus tips shared below will guide you to water your favorite philodendron like a professional gardener.
The Tips
- Insert your finger and check if the top inch of the soil is bone dry. This indicates your plant is thirsty. So go for watering.
- Some of you may be unsure whether you should water a pink princess even after checking the moisture level of the soil. So, getting a moisture meter can help you to find out exactly how moist the soil is.
- While watering make sure the roots get a nice drink. Water until the excess water runs out of the drainage holes. However, avoid water logging as leftover water can cause issues like root rot and other fungal diseases.
- Do not stick to a strict watering schedule as the water your plant needs also depends on different environments and seasons. So, a soil check is a must before watering a philodendron.
Take Away
A happy plant is always a healthy plant. With a little effort you will be pro at deciphering your pink princess dramatic communication style.
Considering the factors shared in this post and observing the environment your plant is in, you can create a watering routine that is as stunning and unique as the variegated leaves of your pink princess.
