Using the right soil is very important to make a philodendron stay healthy, grow fast, and thrive long. This climbing plant has specific soil needs to maintain its growth and development.
The most appropriate and best soil for a philodendron should always be aerated, and well-draining, and the ph. level should not be too low or too high.
Soil mixes can also be prepared at home and used on your plant so, that it gets the necessary nutrients.
So, in this post, I will let you know everything about different varieties of soil and soil mixes for your philodendron to make it alive and prevent the plant from some common problems. I will also share an easy recipe so, that you prepare a good soil mix at home.
What Kind of Soil is Needed by a Philodendron?
As these plants are mostly grown in rainforests so, they survive well in rich soil containing animal droppings, decaying organic matter, decaying wood, and leaf litter in their natural habitat.
So, when you are growing a philodendron at home, you need to make sure the soil used to grow this plant should be moist and well-drained.
You can also add a small amount of compost mix, peat moss, orchid bark, and perlite to the soil to prepare a good potting soil mix.
Which is the Best Potting Soil Mix for a Philodendron?
While choosing the best soil mix for your philodendron you should consider the factors shared below.
Well-draining Soil
Philodendrons prefer well-draining soil so, that its root gets enough space to breathe. A well-draining soil can make the plant stay healthy and prevent problems like root rot.
If the soil is not aerated or well-drained then, there can be a high chance of water logging which may lead to root rot. Potting soil does not drain well enough so, avoid using them for your philodendron.
Soil Should Consist of High Organic Matter
Always use soil that consists of high organic matter so, that the plant gets the required nutrients and stays healthy. A good source of nutrients for a philodendron is worm castings or compost.
Slightly Acidic Soil
Slightly acidic soil with pH. between 6.0 to 6.5 can be ideal for a philodendron. you can use a pH. level meter to check the pH. level of the potting mix.
Moisture Retention
This plant always prefers moist environments as they are heavy feeders. So, always choose a soil mix that retains moisture well. To get better results you can add peat moss or organic compost to the potting soil.
What Do You Mean by the Best Philodendron Soil Mix?
A good soil mix should always be well-drained and aerated. You can easily make a good soil mix at home by using 1 part orchid bark, ¼ part perlite, 1 part peat moss, and 1 part potting mix. Adding some worm casting or compost can also be a good idea.
How Does the Wrong Soil Affect Your Philodendron?
A philodendron can only thrive in loose and well-draining potting mix. Using the wrong soil that is too porous or heavy can cause severe problems for your plant.
So, it is necessary to prepare the right blend and use the right soil to avoid unfavorable conditions. Here are some common problems with a philodendron that can arise if the wrong soil is used.
Leaves Turning Yellow
Although a philodendron prefers moist soil, overwatering is not good for the plant. Too much water can stop proper air circulation around the root and thus can cause yellowing of leaves. Always use loose soil so, that water can seep through it easily. Also, avoid over-watering.
Leaves Falling Off
Diseases and root rot are some causes that can make the leaves of the plant fall off easily. Using too heavy soil doesn’t allow air circulation around the plant due to which there is a high chance of root rot that can lead to premature falling of the leaves.
Dehydration and Brown Leaves
Unlike overwatering, underwatering can also cause some side effects. Due to dehydration, the leaves of your philodendron may turn brown and wrinkled.
If you do not water your plant very often then, avoid using sandy, porous soil as they retain moisture terribly. To prepare a perfect aroid blend you can add some vermiculite or coir to potting mix and use it on your plant.
So, watering a philodendron from time to time is very important to prevent dehydration and browning of the leaves.
How to Prepare a Good Homemade Potting Mix?
A good potting mix can be a boon for your philodendrons, pothos, and monsteras. The right blend can make the plant stay healthy, grow fast, and thrive longer.
Here is an easy homemade potting mix recipe that can be easily prepared at home using a few ingredients.
Prepare DIY Potting Mix
Ingredients:
| 1 Pot | ¼ part perlite |
| 1 part orchid bark | 1 part peat moss |
| 1 part potting mix | Worm castings |
How to Use It
Step 1: Take a pot where you want to place the plant.
Step 2: Mix all the ingredients shared above and dampen the mixture before pouring it into the pot.
How Does it Work?
This mixture can work as a wonder for your plant by allowing excess water to drain out easily.
This potting mix prevents waterlogging and stops the soil from becoming too soggy.
This soil mix recipe can be easily prepared at home and can be stored in a sealed plastic bag and kept in a dark, cool place for future use.
To prevent root rot using this potting mix can be the best option.
Take Away
Using the right soil can prevent diseases and make your plant stay healthy and survive through the years. A well-aerated, draining soil that is rich in organic matter and has a little acidic pH. level is ideal for a philodendron.
Always avoid using heavy and porous soil to prevent discoloration of leaves, falling of leaves, and other diseases.
You can prepare a good potting mix at home by following the recipe shared above. You can also purchase a good soil mix from the market or online if do not have much time to prepare it at home.
I hope this article will help you to identify the best soil that can be used on your philodendron to make the plant healthy, fresh, and beautiful forever.
