How to Buy the Perfect Philodendron

Your Guide to buying the best Philodendrons

Overview

Philodendrons are a popular, easy-care houseplant that thrive in warm and humid environments. They are typically grown for their attractive foliage and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. In this buying guide, you will learn all the essential information you need to know before buying a Philodendron, including how to pick the right variety, where to buy them, and how to care for them after purchase. With this guide, you can find the perfect Philodendron and ensure that it stays healthy and thriving in your home for years to come.

Key features

  1. Type of Philodendron - shoppers should consider what type of philodendron they want to purchase, as there are various species of philodendrons, including climbing, foliage, and self-heading varieties.
  2. Size of Philodendron - shoppers should consider the size of the philodendron they want to purchase, as philodendrons come in a variety of sizes.
  3. Lighting Requirements - shoppers should consider the lighting requirements of the philodendron they want to purchase, as some philodendrons require more light than others.
  4. Water Requirements - shoppers should consider the water requirements of the philodendron they want to purchase, as some philodendrons require more water than others.
  5. Fertilizer Requirements - shoppers should consider the fertilizer requirements of the philodendron they want to purchase, as some philodendrons require more fertilizer than others.
  6. Pest and Disease Control - shoppers should consider pest and disease control when purchasing a philodendron, as some philodendrons are more prone to pests and diseases than others.

See the most popular Philodendrons on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Easy to Care For - Philodendrons require minimal care and are perfect for both beginning and experienced gardeners.
  • Low Maintenance - Philodendrons require minimal pruning and fertilizing and need very little light or water to thrive.
  • Diverse Range of Sizes/Colors - Philodendrons come in a wide variety of sizes and colors, from small, dark-green plants to large, brightly-colored plants.
  • Long-Lived - Philodendrons are long-lived and can provide years of pleasure with proper care.
  • Adaptable - Philodendrons are very adaptable to different climates and soil types, making them a great choice for many different garden settings.
  • Attractive - Philodendrons are attractive plants that can be used to add color and texture to any landscape.

Cons

  • Water Requirements - Philodendrons need to be watered regularly, but not too much, as overwatering can cause root rot and other issues.
  • Pests - Philodendrons are susceptible to pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids.
  • Toxicity - Philodendrons are toxic to animals and humans, so it is important to keep them out of reach of pets and children.
  • Light Requirements - Philodendrons require bright, indirect light, but direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch.
  • Fertilizer - Philodendrons need regular fertilizing during the growing season, but too much fertilizer can damage the plant.

Best alternatives

  1. Pothos - A trailing or climbing houseplant with heart-shaped leaves.
  2. Calatheas - A flowering plant with colorful foliage and long-lasting blooms.
  3. Monsteras - A climbing plant with large leaves and air-purifying qualities.
  4. Fiddle Leaf Figs - An upright tree-like plant with large, wavy leaves.
  5. Peace Lilies - A flowering plant with white blooms and broad, dark-green leaves.
  6. Ficus - A genus of trees and shrubs that produce glossy green leaves.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Potting Soil - A good quality soil to provide the Philodendron with nutrients, moisture, and drainage.
  • Containers - Plant pots or hanging baskets to hold the Philodendron and its soil.
  • Fertilizer - A fertilizer that is specifically designed for Philodendrons.
  • Pruning Shears - A tool used to trim off dead or unhealthy leaves.
  • Humidifier - A machine that helps maintain appropriate humidity levels for the Philodendron.
  • Gardening Gloves - To protect the hands from any potential irritation from the Philodendron while handling or pruning.
  • Watering Can - Used to water Philodendrons.

Common questions

  1. What types of Philodendrons are there? There are many different types of Philodendrons, including Climbing Philodendron, Heart Leaf Philodendron, Elephant Ear Philodendron, Lacy Tree Philodendron, Red Emerald Philodendron, and many more.
  2. Where can I buy Philodendrons? Philodendrons are widely available in garden centers, home improvement stores, and even online. Many online retailers also carry a wide variety of Philodendrons.
  3. How much do Philodendrons cost? Philodendrons can range in price depending on the type and size. Generally speaking, Philodendrons can cost anywhere from a few dollars to several hundred dollars.
  4. How do I care for a Philodendron? Caring for a Philodendron is relatively easy. Provide the plant with bright, indirect light, and water it regularly. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy. Fertilize the plant every few months and trim any dead or dying leaves.
  5. What size pot should I use for a Philodendron? The size of pot you should use for a Philodendron depends on the size of the plant. Generally speaking, it’s best to choose a pot that is one to two inches larger than the root ball of the plant.

Trivia

An interesting and funny fact about Philodendrons is that they are considered to be nature's air purifiers! According to NASA, the Philodendron plant is one of the most efficient houseplants for removing impurities from the air. This is because Philodendrons have large, broad leaves with a high surface area, which makes them great at absorbing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air. So having a Philodendron in your home can help purify the air and make it healthier for you and your family to breathe. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.