Philodendron squamiferum

Philodendron Squamiferum Quick Guide:                                             

Water: Average (Water right after the upper layer gets slightly dry)

Sunlight: Bright to the medium indirect sun.

Humidity: Prefers higher and tolerates lower levels.

Fertilizer: Monthly doses in mild concentration in the growing season.

Philodendron Squamiferum Water Requirements

The water requirement and frequency is variable. Also, it depends upon factors like temperature, sunlight, humidity, and ventilation. Understanding the drying pattern of soil helps you maintain the watering schedule. Talking about an estimated frequency, once to thrice a week is enough for the warm days. While the water requirement of the plant decrease with slow growth in the cold. So, once every ten to twenty days is usually enough after the fall.

Wet and soggy soil can cause root rot. Thus, make sure you never water the soil unless the upper 2 inches lose the previous moisture.

Sunlight Requirements

These natives of tropical forests tend to climb tall trees getting dappled sun. So, medium to the bright indirect sun is what they love. The importance of proper sunlight is unavoidable. 

Inadequate sun can lead to poor and leggy growth. Besides, there are high chances of soil staying wet for long, causing root rot. On the other hand, strong direct sun can scorch out the foliage.

Soil Requirements

Choose a well-draining and organically rich growing medium. It is better to choose more than simple soil for indoor potted plants. This will help you avoid many disease-causing microorganisms.

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Common Problems

Why isn't my Philodendron Squamiferum growing?

Philodendron Squamiferum are quite slow growers so there will be periods of time where you don’t see any growth at all. However, if there is no growth during spring and summer then your plant might be pot-bound. Inspect the root system to see whether it needs an upgrade in pot size.

Why does my Philodendron Squamiferum have brown leaf tips?

Brown leaf tips on a Philodendron Squamiferum are often caused by a lack of humidity. Make sure you are misting your plant a few times each week as well as using a humidifier to increase the humidity level.

Why does my Philodendron Squamiferum have dark brown leaves?

If your Philodendron Squamiferum has dark brown or black leaves then you are probably overwatering your plant. If there isn’t enough drainage (eg. the drainage holes are blocked by clumps of soil) or you are simply overwatering each time then the roots on your Philodendron Squamiferum will begin to rot. This means your plant can no longer get all the water and nutrients it needs and the leaves will go brown or black. Replace the waterlogged soil with fresh potting mix and trim away the worst affected roots and leaves.