Philodendrons are known for their versatility and hardiness when grown indoors. Both vining types such as heartleaf philodendron and self-heading varieties, like pink princess philodendron, are low-maintenance houseplants with the proper conditions and a little TLC.
These lush tropical plants grow best in warm, humid conditions with indirect light, well-drained soil, and regular water. But figuring out the proper watering schedule can be tricky.
Here’s how often to water philodendrons to keep your plants thriving and healthy.
How Often Should You Water Philodendron?
It’s time to water your philodendron when the top inch or two of soil has dried out, likely once a week or biweekly. Check the soil moisture regularly rather than watering on a set schedule.
In nature, philodendrons live in the warm, humid rainforests of Central and South America. They require moist soil but can adapt easily to life indoors with lower humidity.
How often you water your philodendron will depend on the time of year and the conditions in your space.
- In summer, when long days promote new growth, your plant will need more frequent watering—as often as once a week, depending on factors like drainage, light, and the material of the pot (for example, terracotta wicks away moisture, while plastic and glazed ceramic holds it in).
- In winter, when growth slows and your plant needs less water, you may only need to water once every two weeks.
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Should You Bottom or Top-Water Philodendron?
There are two primary ways to water houseplants: from the top, by pouring water onto the soil surface and allowing it to drip out of the bottom of the pot, and from the bottom, by filling a sink or basin with water and allowing the plant to take up moisture through its drainage hole.
You can water philodendrons using either method. Bottom watering may be more effective if you’ve let the growing medium get completely dry, which requires a slow rehydration of the root ball over time. However, you’ll want to ensure you use a soilless potting mix, not garden soil.
Top watering is also effective for philodendrons. Water your plant deeply so that water drains out of the holes in the bottom of the pot.
Watering Tip
Regardless of the method you choose, always empty drip trays and cache pots so your plant isn’t sitting in excess water. Overwatering your philodendron can lead to yellow leaves, leaf drop, and root rot, which can kill your plant.
Signs You’re Not Watering Your Philodendron Enough
- Dry, shrinking soil: If the soil surface looks very dry and the edges of the root ball have started to pull away from the sides of the pot, that’s a sign your plant is overly dry and needs a deep watering right away.
- Drooping leaves: An underwatered philodendron will often have wilted or droopy leaves.
- Yellowing leaves: The plant’s oldest leaves will begin to turn yellow and drop off without adequate water. Note that overwatering can also cause yellow leaves, so check the soil moisture to diagnose the issue.
- Brown or curling leaves: An underwatered philodendron may display leaves that curl or have dry, brown edges due to lack of moisture.
Additional Tips for Philodendron Care
- Make sure your philodendron is planted in a well-drained potting mix. Use a mix that includes equal parts peat moss or coconut coir, perlite, and orchid bark to ensure good drainage and moisture retention.
- Get a feel for when your philodendron needs water. Note the weight of the pot in your hand when you’ve just watered—it should feel heavy. When the pot feels very light, the moisture has evaporated from the soil and it’s time to water.
- Philodendrons that are somewhat potbound may dry out more quickly. If your plant needs frequent watering to maintain soil moisture, it may be time to repot in a slightly larger container with fresh soil.
- If you choose to bottom water your philodendron, top water it periodically to help flush out built-up soluble salts, which can harm the plant.
FAQ
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Signs that your philodendron needs watering include drooping or wilting leaves, yellowing older leaves, and very dry soil.
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Misting doesn’t actually increase humidity for houseplants. If you’re concerned about having adequate moisture in the air, run a humidifier near your plant.
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Allow the top two inches of soil to dry out before watering your philodendron.