How to Repot a Philodendron?

The Philodendron, either vining like Scandens or non-vining like Selloum, requires timely repot to maintain the lush and glossy shine of the heart-shaped foliage.

Continue till the end to get the step-by-step instructions and tips to repot your good-old Philodendron baby.

Reasons to Repot Philodendron

Technically, one does not need a specific reason to repot their Philodendron.

However, this is not the only reason. Some of the further reasons include:

• Plant Multiplication: Given the popularity and aesthetic looks of Philodendrons, every plant lover would want to multiply them for their living spaces.
• Mineral Loss: Philodendrons thrive by upholding the nutrients and minerals they get from the soil. But over time, in about 1 to 2 years, the soil loses its mineral content, unable to support the new growth.
• Excessive Root Binding: The Philodendron hates to be root bound as it invites bacterial growth and root rot and affects the overall development of the plant.

When Should I Repot Philodendron

Early spring is the best time to go ahead and repot your Philodendron. However, you can repot them in late spring as well.

Furthermore, the roots will have enough time to establish themselves in the new medium and produce healthy fresh growth.

You can also repot your Philodendron if the tiny roots begin to seep out the drainage holes.

Another good time to repot your Philodendron is when you see that the roots immediately absorb the water. Also, you will see that a few roots might be creeping out of the topsoil.

Nevertheless, ensure to repot them only during the growing seasons and strictly avoid repotting the Philodendron in the winter and summer.

How Often Do You Need to Repot Philodendron Plants?

In normal circumstances, you should be repotting your Philodendron at least once in two to three years, depending upon its size and growth pattern.

For instance, Philodendrons growing outdoors may require more frequent repots than the Philodendrons in your bedroom.

It all depends on how big your plant is, how fast they grow or what kind of growing conditions they receive.

Place them beside a bright window that receives indirect light throughout the day, and you will see that they need to be repotted more frequently.

How to Repot Philodendron?

Philodendrons are sturdy plants that can be repotted quickly in a new potting mix without hassle.

So give your Philodendron a refreshed and healthy look through an effective repot by following the given steps.

Step 1: Take out The Plant

If your Philodendron has been potted in a plastic pot, slightly pinch the edges of the pot and pull out the plant.

Step 2: Detangle Roots

Untangle the roots using a clean fork or chopsticks. You can also run it down tap water to thoroughly clean and untie the roots.

Use a pair of sterilized scissors to prune unhealthy and decayed roots.

Step 3: Prune Old Leaves

It is recommended to give a thorough haircut to your Philodendron before repotting them.

Getting rid of mature leaves helps the plant invest the energy into establishing the roots more efficiently in the new growing medium.

Step 4: Find The Right Pot

Take a slightly larger terracotta or ceramic pot, about two to three inches big and deep than the existing one.

Make sure the pot has a few drainage holes at the bottom. If not, you can drill one yourself.

Step 5: Prepare Potting Mix

Prepare a potting mix rich in coco peat, perlites, and sand. Or, you can use a standard sterilized potting mix from the plant store.

Fill the pot with one-third potting mix.

Take reference from the video if you are still confused about the soil mix!

Step 6: Insert The Plant and Cover it With Potting Mix

Carefully position your Philodendron inside the pot, with all the roots facing downwards or sideways.

Fill the pot with more potting mix to hold the plant in an upright position.

Step 7: Water Repotted Plant

Thoroughly water the newly repotted Philodendron until the excess water runs down the drainage holes.

Meanwhile, check the water requirement daily to ensure that the soil remains moist but not too wet for about ten days.

Precautions to Take While Repotting Philodendron

Although Philodendrons are easy to repot, the process comes with a few critical points you must remember.

• If you have a stunted Philodendron, cut the plant to four inches. This increases the chances of healthy development and vigorous growth.
• Remember that sap of Philodendrons irritates the skin, so better to use a pair of gloves.
• If the roots and soil appear densely packed together, water the plant generously before attempting to repot.
• Ensure not to prune more than 50% of the roots at once.
• Do not prune more than 75% of the leaves in one go. Leaves are necessary to produce energy and help the roots establish themselves.

How to Take Care of a Repotted Philodendron

The following tips and tricks will help ensure that your Philodendron has an excellent environment to adjust and acclimate itself to a new pot.

• Place them in a shady spot that is semi-light, and for outdoors, place them on a balcony with almost zero sunlight.
• Ensure a temperature between 65ºF and 80ºF during the day and around 60ºF at night.
• Avoid completely drenching the soil in water and keep it slightly moist by misting daily.
• However, ensure to wipe down the plant after each mist to avoid the development of fungus.
• Opt for humidity in the range of 65 to 80%, although that can be dropped to 55% overnight.
• Aphids, mealybugs, scales, and spider mites might bug your Philodendrons. So you can physically remove it or spray the plant with neem oil once in three days.
• Make sure you wait for at least six weeks before adding the first liquid water-soluble fertilizer boost.
• However, it is entirely safe to use organic and natural fertilizers in the third week after repotting.

Why Does Philodendron Stop Growing After Repotting?

Philodendrons that stop growing soon after repotting are expected as the plant undergoes stress due to repotting.

Once the roots have established themselves in the new growing medium, your Philodendrons will continue to grow.

However, your plant might have been stunted if your Philodendron shows no signs of growth even after the fifth week of repot.

This happens due to a lack of enough water and plant vitamins. So, change your watering habits and give in some plant food to ensure your Philodendrons continue growing.