A philodendron pink princess is always in demand due to its vibrant green and pink leaves. This stunning houseplant is quite popular among gardeners as it imposes some extra beauty on the place where it is grown.
A proper watering schedule is very important to keep this beautiful plant healthy and thriving. This post provides more information on how often to water a Pink Princess and the side effects of over- and under-watering.
How to Understand the Watering Needs of a Philodendron Pink Princess?
Understanding your pink princess’s water needs is important to maintaining its overall health. Here are some signs that will help you understand that your beloved plant is thirsty.
Watering Frequency
Light
your plant needs to be watered more frequently when kept in a place with indirect, bright light. This will promote faster growth. However, less watering can be done if the plant is placed in lower light conditions.
Temperature
faster evaporation occurs if the temperature is warmer so, frequent watering is needed in this situation. Less watering can be done with cooler temperatures as there is less evaporation.
Humidity
If the humidity level around the plant is higher then, there is no need to water frequently as higher humidity allows the soil to dry out slowly. However, if the humidity level is low then, frequent watering is a must as the soil dries faster.
Size of the Pot
Plants kept in larger pots hold more moisture than those kept in smaller pots. So, a pink princess placed in the larger pot will require less watering.
Type of Soil
Using a looser, airier mix will need more water. A well-draining potting mix dries out faster than those that retain more moisture.
Signs Your Pink Princess is Thirsty
🌿 Droopy leaves: Limp and droopy leaves are signs of underwatering. If you notice the plant has lost its perky posture, you need to water it. | 🌱 Wrinkled leaves: Puckered or wrinkled leaves mean your plant is thirsty. This happens when your plant struggles to maintain internal pressure. |
🌦️ Soil dryness: If the top 2 inches of the soil becomes dry then, make sure your pink princess is running lack of water. You can check the moisture level by sticking your finger into the soil. | 🍀 Brown or crispy leaf edges: A common sign of under-watering is leaves with brown, dry, and crisp edges. |
Watering Routine
Following a proper watering routine can keep your pink princess always happy and healthy. This guide will help you to develop a personalized watering routine.
During Growing Period
Watering a pink princess is important during summer and spring as it is the growing season of the philodendron. Watering once a week during this period can be good for the plant as due to increased sunlight and warmer temperatures the water evaporates faster from the soil.
However, it is always suggested that the moisture level of the soil be checked before watering. To ensure all the roots receive moisture, water thoroughly until the excess water drains out from the drainage holes of the pot.
During Dormant Season
Your pink princess will enter a dormant state as the temperature drops and winter arrives. As the growth of the plant slows down during this period so, reduce watering.
Only water, when the top 2/3rd of the soil dries out completely. Watering the plant every 1 or 2 weeks is enough during these seasons.
Proper Technique to Keep a Pink Princess Hydrated
Follow the steps shared below to ensure proper hydration and create a moisture balance for your beloved philodendron.
Saturate the Soil Thoroughly
To ensure all the roots are equally moist you need to water the plant evenly and slowly until the water drains out the holes. Make sure the excess water runs out completely.
If there is water logging and the water does not drain out completely then, water again lightly. Sprinkling water from the top won’t let the roots have access to moisture. So, avoid it.
Let the Soil Dry Out Between Watering
A pink princess cannot survive if the soil is too soggy. These can also lead to root rot. So, it is always suggested that the soil be allowed to dry out partially before watering. You can check the moisture level of the soil by sticking your finger into the top inch of the soil.
Drooping or wilting of leaves can be signs that your plant is thirsty. However, the soil should be dry before watering again.
How to Troubleshoot Common Watering Issues?
Watering issues can arise even with the best intentions. Here are some ways to avoid over- and under-watering.
1) Overwatering
Overwatering a pink princess can cause several issues. Due to excessive water, the leaves become limp and soft. You may also notice yellowing of leaves that fall off prematurely. Using excess water can lead to fungal diseases that manifest as brown spots on leaves.
Chronic overwatering may hamper the plant’s growth. Excess water makes the soil soggy for a longer period, which causes root rot.
The Solution
- To get rid of the issues shared above water, a pink princess only when the top 2 inches of the soil dries out. The pot where the philodendron is placed should have enough drainage holes to drain away excess water.
- Repotting with a well-draining potting mix and, pruning off damaged leaves can be good for the plant if the roots appear mushy and brown. Always avoid placing a pink princess in a covered pot or a tightly packed area.
2) Under watering
Underwatering is less common when growing a pink princess. However, the leaves may feel crisp and dry due to less water.
Under watering a philodendron may exhibit stunted growth and leaves may curl inwards at the edges. Due to less watering the potting mix may dry out completely.
The Solution
- Watering should be done in such a way so, that the soil gets completely soaked and the excess water runs out of the drainage holes. Frequent watering is needed during low humidity and hot weather.
- Misting the plant from time to time can provide temporary relief.
Final Touch Up
Although both under-watering and over-watering can be harmful for a pink princess, under-watering is generally safer than over-watering.
By monitoring the signs of thirst and recognizing the factors affecting water frequency you can make your favorite plant thrive for years, showcasing its beautiful pink variegation.