Philodendron Ring of Fire 4”

Light:

• Bright, indirect light is ideal for this plant. It needs plenty of light to maintain its vibrant leaf coloration, but direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.

• In lower light conditions, the plant may lose its bright colors and grow more slowly. An east- or north-facing window works well, or you can use artificial grow lights.

Watering:

• Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Philodendron Ring of Fire prefers to dry out slightly between waterings, but don’t let the soil dry out completely.

• Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, and make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Humidity:

• This plant thrives in high humidity (around 60-80%), which helps maintain its vibrant leaf color and promotes healthy growth.

• If your home has low humidity, especially during the winter months, use a humidifier, mist the plant regularly, or place it on a tray of water and pebbles to increase moisture around the plant.

Temperature:

• The ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 80°F. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 55°F as this can cause damage.

• Keep it away from drafts, air conditioners, or heating vents that could cause temperature fluctuations.

Soil:

• Use a well-draining, aroid-specific potting mix that allows for good aeration. A mix of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss or coco coir is ideal to prevent compaction and improve drainage.

• Make sure the pot has drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizer:

• During the growing season (spring and summer), feed the plant every 4-6 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.

• Reduce or stop fertilizing in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows down.

Pruning:

• Pruning is generally not necessary for the Philodendron Ring of Fire, but you can remove any yellow, damaged, or dead leaves to keep the plant looking its best.

• Trimming leggy growth can also help promote a more compact shape.

Repotting:

• Repot the plant every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound. The best time to repot is in the spring when the plant is actively growing.

• Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger than the current one to give the roots room to grow.

Pest Control:

• Philodendron Ring of Fire is relatively pest-resistant, but it can occasionally attract common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids.

• Inspect the plant regularly for any signs of pests, and treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Common Issues:

• Yellowing leaves: This is often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Allow the soil to dry out more between waterings and ensure the pot has good drainage.

• Brown leaf tips or edges: Usually caused by low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity levels and check your watering schedule.

• Slow growth or leggy appearance: May be due to insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter spot with indirect sunlight.

 Propagation:

• Philodendron Ring of Fire can be propagated through stem cuttings or air layering. For stem cuttings, take a healthy cutting just below a node and place it in water or soil to root.

• Air layering involves wrapping a moist sphagnum moss around a stem and covering it with plastic until roots form, then cutting and potting the new plant.

General Tips:

• Rotate the plant every few weeks to encourage even growth, as it will tend to grow toward the light source.

• Wipe the leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust, which allows the plant to photosynthesize more efficiently and helps prevent pests.