Care for Split-Leaf Philodendron

Hardiness Insight

• Grow split-leaf philodendron outdoors year round in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 and warmer. Best in regions without frost, this tropical plant may sprout back from its roots in spring if limited winter cold kills the foliage. If planted in a warm, sheltered location, it readily rejuvenates after the winter even in zone 8b, where temperatures may briefly drop as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Cold damage, from frosts or freezes, is seen as partial browning or dying of exposed leaves. Cut away cold-killed leaves in spring after the threat of frost passes, not during the winter. As long as the growing tip atop the stem doesn't freeze, or any buds from the trunk base aren't frozen, this tropical plant sprouts new leaves by the following summer.

Soil Conditions

• Whether grown indoors in a container or outdoors in the ground, split-leaf philodendron prospers in a soil that isn't alkaline in pH and is moist but well-drained. During the heat and more intense light of spring to fall, water as needed -- supplementing rainfall -- to keep the soil evenly moist, but never soggy. From fall to spring, keep the soil on the dry side, as the plant is not growing quickly, and cold soil and overly wet conditions lead to root rot. Crumbly soils, enriched with organic matter, are ideal.

Fertilizer Insight

• If the garden or potting soil already is rich in organic matter, the need for supplemental fertilizer is diminished. Fertilizing container-grown philodendrons becomes especially important if the enlarging plants are not regularly repotted with fresh organic matter in larger containers. Scatter slow-release fertilizer granules atop the soil outdoors and in containers in early spring and again in early summer. A 10-10-10 formula with micronutrients works well. Alternatively, container-grown plants may be given water-soluble fertilizer monthly from spring to fall as part of a typical watering.

Tips

• When grown in the house, split-leaf philodendron cannot receive too much light, and up to six hours of direct sun improves plant vigor through increased photosynthesis. Outdoors, it's best to place this philodendron in partial sun to bright, indirect shade. Low humidity coupled with dry soil and intense sunlight often leads to leaf edges yellowing or browning. In the winter months, more sunlight is tolerated without ill effects. As plants get taller and older, narrow aerial prop roots emerge from the main trunk and grow downward. There's no need to prune the aerial roots, as they provide support, unless the roots are creating a safety hazard or threatening to damage property.