The Best Way to Grow Split-Leaf Philodendron Indoors

Step 1

Pot split-leaf philodendron in a peat- and soil-based potting medium inside a container with at least one bottom drainage hole. Use a container 3 inches larger in diameter than the root ball with a depth equal to or greater than the diameter.

Step 2

Place the philodendron in an area that receives bright but indirect sunlight, and where temperatures remain between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Too little light prevents the leaves from developing ornamental perforations, so it's best to grow the plant in bright, diffused light.

Step 3

Water the philodendron when the top 1/2 to 1 inch of soil begins to dry out. Water the soil surface until the excess drains from the bottom of the pot. Empty the collected water from the drip tray after watering.

Step 4

Mist the foliage daily with water from a spray bottle to raise humidity, which encourages the best growth. Alternatively, group the philodendron with other plants to increase humidity in the area.

Step 5

Water the philodendron with an all-purpose houseplant food every two weeks during the spring and summer when the plant is actively growing. For example, dilute 1/2 teaspoon of soluble 24-8-16 fertilizer in 1 gallon of water and fertilizer the plant with this solution.

Step 6

Remove dead or damaged leaves at any time. Pinch off a damaged leaf at its base and remove it from the pot.

Step 7

Monitor the philodendron for mites, thrips, aphids and other common houseplant pests. Rinse the pests from the foliage with a sharp spray of water or wipe them off with a damp cloth. For major infestations, spray the affected leaves with a ready-to-use insecticidal soap spray. Reapply the spray every five days until the pests are gone.