Philodendron Goeldii: Ultimate Care Tips [With Buying Guide]

The aesthetic green foliage of Philodendron goeldii fades away when they are taken for granted for their easy-going care needs.

But that’s not all. Philodendron goeldii still has other care factors that must be fulfilled for utmost growth.

Thus, continue reading so you can enjoy a full-fledged Philodendron goeldii, aka Finger leaf plant.

Philodendron Goeldii Overview

Also known as Finger leaf plants, they have finger-like glossy green leaf arrangements on long stems.

Philodendron Goeldii: Ultimate Growing & Care Tips

Philodendron goeldii has no limits and can be grown indoors and outdoors in USDA zones 9-11.

It will transform into a beautiful houseplant with more accessible care and maintenance.

1. Sunlight & Temperature

Philodendron goeldii is a shade-loving tropical plant that grows best in medium bright light with a warm setting of 60-86°F.

But opt for caution by keeping plants 3 to 5 feet away from the window to avoid direct sunburn and cold drafts (<50°F).

Scorched leaves often have yellow, brown spots with dry leaf tips that do not revert to green.

Meanwhile, low light or cold condition results in stunted growth and pale, limpy, wilted, droopy leaves.

To avoid that, always aim for incandescent lamps (7-10 hours), frost blankets or heat pads during winter.

2. Watering & Humidity

Young Philodendron goeldii thrives in evenly moist soil with relatively higher humidity of 60-80%.

Meanwhile, give your outdoor ones twice a week thorough watering to avoid underwatering issues.

Underwatered Finger leaf Philodendron often results in stunted growth with wilted, droopy leaves.

Likewise, the symptoms of overwatered goeldii include grayish mold on top of drenched soil with yellowing and decaying leaves.

Alongside consistent high humidity, excess water attracts pests and fungal diseases.

Therefore, opt for the bottom watering with pebbles to keep plants hydrated or use a moisture meter and water accordingly.

3. Soil & Fertilizer

Philodendron goeldii is a heavy feeder that thrives in nutrient-rich, porous, well-draining soil.

As they are fond of acidic soil mix (5.5 to 6), add sphagnum peat moss, perlite and compost.

Alternatively, you can consider buying a commercial potting mix with macro and micronutrients.

On the other hand, aim for nitrous fertilizer to boost thick foliage growth in spring and summer.

However, avoid overfeeding the plant, which may cause chemical buildup in the soil, leading to root burns.

Also, cut back on fertilizing them in winter up to once every two months.

4. Potting & Repotting

Philodendron goeldii requires repotting once in a few years because it enjoys a slightly root-bound condition.

However, they need immediate repotting when infected with fungal diseases like rust spots, Fusarium wilt and Rhizoctonia rot.

Carefully repot Philodendron after removing infected parts and applying fungicides to prevent further spread.

Choose a clay pot approximately 2-3″ larger than the current pot or 2″ bigger than the root ball’s size.

5. Occasional Pruning

Philodendron goeldii does not require regular pruning as they barely take up much space.

Moreover, you must prune them when pests like mealybugs, aphids, spider mites and scales invade goeldii.

To control and treat pest infestation, apply neem oil and prune off all damaged parts immediately with a sterilized pruner.

Otherwise, to make Philodendron bushy, aim to prune in early spring to encourage optimal growth.

Philodendron Goeldii: All About Growth

Philodendron goeldii is a tropical perennial climber with a moderately fast growth rate that grows longer stems in a spiral shape.

They actively unfurl new leaves in summer and spring but stay inactive in winter with no new growth.

They have dramatic spiraling stems that feature long glossy green leaves.

Juvenile leaves have a light green shade and turn into a deep green with more pronounced petioles.

Philodendron goeldii will produce typical aroid inflorescences any time of the year when provided with ideal care.

Propagation Methods for Philodendron Goeldii

Philodendron goeldii can be propagated via stem cuttings, air layerings and even seeds.

But seed propagation is a sophisticated process with a low success rate. So, stem cutting is much preferred.

Furthermore, aim to propagate goeldii in early spring or summer.

Now, gather tools like a rooting hormone, potting mix and sterilized pruners before getting your hands dirty.

1. Propagation via Stem Cuttings

Stem cutting is the safest choice to populate goeldii with minimal requirements.

• Choose a healthy stem at least 2-3 inches long and cut below a stem node.
• Remove leaves from the stem, except for 2-3 leaves.
• Rooting in Soil: Allow the cutting to form callous by keeping it moist for a few days.
• Once the callus forms, plant the cutting a few inches deep in moist soil.
• Place it in dappled sunlight and wait 2 to 3 weeks for new root growth.
• Rooting in Water: Place the freshly cut stem in a jar filled with water and rooting hormone.
• Replace the water every 5 to 7 days and place the jar in a bright, warmer place.
• Within 2 to 3 weeks, you can notice new feeder roots sprouting.
• Once the roots are rigid and firm, transplant them to a new pot and proceed with regular Philodendron goeldii care.

2. Air Layering Method

Instead of rooting the stem in a potting medium, the layering method propagates on an existing plant.

Firstly, look for a healthy-looking stem with at least two plant nodes present.

• Start with removing extra leaves from a stem and cutting the bark.
• Layer the cut section with an organic mix, cover it with plastic and tie the ends to boost humidity.
• Poke holes on the cover plastic to ensure optimal air circulation.
• Once you see the roots, remove the plastic and carefully cut just below the stem with new roots.
• Transfer it to a new pot with the appropriate potting mix.

Toxicity of Philodendron Goeldii

Like most aroids, Philodendron goeldii is toxic to most pets like cats, dogs and even humans.

According to the ASPCA, Philodendron species are toxic due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.

Consumption of any part of the Philodendron results in oral irritation, vomiting, diarrhea and hypersalivation in pets.

Furthermore, ingested in larger amounts can lead to kidney failure.

Thus, seek medical help immediately if you suspect your kids or pets nibbled Philodendron goeldii.

But Philodendron goeldii does not pose any threats via regular skin contact.

Nonetheless, take appropriate caution and place the plant away from pets’ reach to avoid accidental consumption.

Where to Buy Philodendron Goeldii?

Philodendron goeldii used to be a rare Philodendron species, but now you can easily find them in local and online stores.

The normal green goeldii may cost anywhere from $26 to $200. But variegated ones cross over $1000.

Here I have enlisted some verified, reliable online vendors with Philodendron goeldii for sale.