How to Transplant Split Leaf Philodendrum

Split leaf philodendrums (Monstera deliciosa), also called split leaf philodendrons, require warm temperatures for survival and are usually grown inside or taken outdoors only during warm weather. They are named for the holes in their leaves, which give the plants an unusual and striking appearance. Split leaf philodendrums grow quickly and eventually get too large for available container space. When this happens, the plant begins to suffer ill effects, such as slowed growth, yellowed foliage and a constant need for water. Transplant split leaf philodendrum to a larger container during spring or summer so that new growth begins quickly.

Scissors
Knife
Growing container
Coffee filter
Potting soil

Instructions

- 1
  Stretch your hand over the top of the container the split leaf philodendrum is growing in and turn it upside down.
- 2
  Bang the rim of the container against a sturdy surface until the root ball is jarred loose.
- 3
  Grasp the split leaf philodendron at soil level and carefully slide it free of the pot.
- 4
  Inspect the roots and use scissors to trim away those that are very pliable, dark or have an unpleasant odor. Also split roots that appear to be growing in a circle.
- 5
  Make three or four vertical 1/3-inch-deep cuts with a knife into the bottom of the root ball, which loosens compacted roots and helps to stimulate growth.
- 6
  Select a growing container approximately 2 inches larger in diameter than the original.
- 7
  Line the bottom of the chosen container with a coffee filter to keep the soil from escaping during watering.
- 8
  Add 2 to 4 inches of potting soil to the bottom of the planter.
- 9
  Place the split leaf philodendrum into the planter and gently remove the surface edge of the root ball.
- 10
  Fill in around the roots with potting soil and water the plant until moisture begins to escape through the drainage holes.
- 11
  Place the newly transplanted split leaf philodendrum in a sunny location that is protected from cool drafts.

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