Philodendron is known for its gorgeous leaves, making it a popular houseplant. But did you know can philodendron be outside? They just need the proper care. Give your philodendron a try in your garden by providing partial shade and consistent moisture. Be sure to move it back indoors before fall to keep it happy and healthy all year long. Keep reading to learn more outdoor tips for your favorite leafy plant.
Key Takeaway
- Philodendrons thrive outdoors in USDA zones 9-11, where the summers are warm and mild.
- Acclimate your plant slowly and watch for proper watering to prevent root rot or pests from damaging the roots.
- Check leaves and new growth regularly for any signs of struggling like yellowing or slowing, and bring indoors at first symptoms of stress.
Growing Philodendrons Outside
Philodendrons do well in warm, sunny climates. They thrive in areas where the weather stays nice like zones 9 to 11. Growing philodendrons outside can be fun if you live somewhere hot [1].
Light: Philodendrons like some sunshine but not all day. Too much sun can burn their leaves. Too little sun makes them grow slow.
Soil: The soil needs to drain well. Philodendrons like wet soil but not soggy wet soil. A soil for tropical plants works good.
Water: Check the top inch of soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. Giving too much water can make the roots sick and wet. Make sure the pot has holes on the bottom so extra water can drain out. This keeps the roots happy.
Give your philodendron the right light, soil and water. Then you can enjoy its pretty leaves outdoors with you all summer long! Let me know if you have any other questions.
Moving a Philodendron Outside
Bringing a philodendron from inside to outside needs to be done slowly. This helps the plant get used to changes in light and temperature.
Start small. First, put the plant in the shade outside for a few hours each day. This lets it adjust without a big shock.
Slowly give it more sun. After a week, move it to areas with a little more sun each time, but only for short periods.
Watch how it’s doing. Check if leaves droop or turn yellow. If so, it may need more shade still. Moving it to different spots can help it feel happy.
Taking time to slowly introduce the plant to outside stops it from getting stressed. Going slow is best to keep your philodendron healthy as it grows in its new home!
Some Philodendron Types Are Better Outside
Not all types of philodendron can live outside. Some kinds like the warm weather more [2].
Philodendron bipinnatifidum: This one has big, pretty leaves. It also likes hot sun. It’s a good plant for your garden.
Philodendron selloum: This philodendron does well too. It can take warmth and moisture outside.
Some philodendrons like to climb. If yours does that, give it something to hold onto. A pole or fence will help it grow up instead of out. This lets climbers shine in your yard.
Talk to a garden store worker to choose types that will be happiest in your outdoor spot. They can help pick varieties that match your climate.
Taking Care of Philodendrons Outside in Summer
Summer is the best time for philodendrons to live outside. But they still need some care to stay healthy.
Sun protection – Philodendrons like morning sun but shade in the afternoons. Too much hot sun can burn their leaves.
Water schedule – Water about once a week is usually good. But check the soil between rains too. Water when it gets dry an inch down.
Moisture – Philodendrons like humid air. On dry, hot days misting the leaves helps them not get too thirsty.
Pay attention to sunlight, water, and moisture levels keeps philodendrons outside all summer long. Your philodendrons will look great decorating your garden! Let me know if any other questions come up.
Winter Care for Outdoor Philodendrons
Philodendrons cannot handle frost or freeze. So those in zones with cold winters need extra care.
Bring inside before fall. Before the weather gets chilly, move the plant to a spot inside your home. This protects it from cold weather.
Watch the weather reports. Stay up to date so you know if temperatures may drop when not expected.
Choose a warm spot. When indoors for winter, put the philodendron near a sunny window. This keeps it from getting too cold.
Taking those steps helps the plant stay cozy and safe during winter. Then it can go back outside happy in the springtime!
Getting Rid of Pests on Outdoor Philodendrons
Philodendrons outside may attract some pesky bugs. Keep an eye out for these common pesty critters.
Aphids: You’ll see small groups of these sap-sucking bugs on new leaves.
Mealybugs: They look like fluffy white spots. Too many will stress the plant.
Spider mites: Hard to see, they make leaves spotty and webs.
Check plants often. If you find bugs, act fast. Spray with soap or neem oil. These natural sprays dunk without poisoning
Getting rid of pests before they do damage will help keep philodendrons looking their best outdoors! Let me know if any other questions come up.
Tips for Growing Philodendrons in Pots
Pots are a great way to grow philodendrons. Here are some tips:
Choose wisely. Pick a container with holes on the bottom so water doesn’t stay in.
Use good soil. Fill the pot with soil meant for tropical plants. This feeds the roots well.
Be mobile. Pots let you move the plant inside when it gets cold out.
Care for the dirt. When planting, use soil that drains well and keeps roots happy.
Pots make caring for philodendrons easy. The plants can stay safe indoors when weather changes. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Signs a Philodendron Outside Is Sick
It’s important to watch for any problems with your outdoor philodendron. Here are some things to look out for:
Yellow leaves. Leaves turning yellow may mean too much water or not enough food.
Slow growth. If it’s not getting bigger like usual, it could need more sun or water.
Falling leaves. Leaves dropping hints at stress, often from very hot/cold temps or bugs.
If you see these signs, act fast! Try changing how you water or moving its spot. This will help your plant feel better and keep growing strong. Let me know if you have any other questions!
FAQ
How do philodendron plants fare in outdoor environments?
Philodendron plants can thrive outdoors in warm, humid climates like zone 9b. These popular houseplants adapt well to outdoor living if conditions mimic their native South American habitats. However, they’re sensitive to temperature drops and can’t survive winter outdoors in colder regions. When transitioning philodendrons outside, choose a spot with indirect sunlight and high humidity. Monitor soil moisture closely, as outdoor conditions can dry out potting mix faster than indoors.
What are the ideal light conditions for outdoor philodendrons?
Outdoor philodendrons prefer bright, indirect sunlight. While they can tolerate low light conditions, they grow best with dappled shade or filtered light. Avoid placing them in direct sun, which can scorch their leaves. Morning light is gentler than afternoon sun. If you’re moving a philodendron from indoors to outdoors, gradually acclimate it to brighter light to prevent shock. Some varieties, like the pink princess philodendron, may need more light to maintain their colorful foliage.
How tall and wide can philodendrons grow outdoors?
Philodendrons can grow impressively tall and wide outdoors, with some tree philodendrons reaching 15-20 feet tall. Climbing types can spread even wider with support. The split-leaf philodendron (Monstera deliciosa) is known for its massive, deeply lobed leaves and can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide. Smaller varieties like the Xanadu philodendron stay more compact. Growth rate depends on care, light conditions, and the growing season.
What’s the best potting mix for outdoor philodendrons?
Outdoor philodendrons thrive in a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. A good mix retains moisture while allowing excess water to drain quickly. Combine regular potting soil with perlite, peat moss, and orchid bark for improved drainage. This mimics their natural habitat and prevents root rot. As the plant grows, you may need to repot it into a larger container, especially for tree philodendrons or rapidly growing varieties.
How do I care for philodendrons outdoors during spring and summer?
During the growing season in spring and summer, outdoor philodendrons need more attention. Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry. Increase humidity by misting the plant or placing a pebble tray nearby. Feed them monthly with a balanced fertilizer. Watch for common problems like spider mites, especially in warm, dry conditions. Provide support for climbing types with a moss pole or trellis. Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
What’s the ideal temperature range for outdoor philodendrons?
Philodendrons thrive in warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature range is between 65-85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate brief dips to 55°F but struggle below that. In areas with cooler nights, consider bringing your philodendron indoors or providing protection. During hot spells, ensure they have enough shade and moisture. If you live in a climate with cold winters, plan to bring your philodendron inside before temperatures drop too low.
How do I propagate outdoor philodendrons?
Propagating outdoor philodendrons is easy using stem cuttings. Choose a healthy stem with at least two nodes and a few leaves. Cut just below a node, remove the bottom leaves, and place the cutting in water or moist potting mix. For best results, take cuttings during the growing season. Philodendrons also produce aerial roots, which can be used for air layering. This method works well for larger plants or tree philodendrons that are too big to propagate through simple cuttings.
How do philodendrons compare to other common outdoor plants like the fiddle leaf fig?
While both are popular houseplants, philodendrons generally adapt better to outdoor conditions than fiddle leaf figs. Philodendrons are more resilient, tolerating a wider range of light conditions and humidity levels. They’re also easier to care for, making them a better choice for beginners. Philodendrons come in various types, from vining to tree-like forms, offering more versatility in outdoor landscaping. Their care guide is similar to a pothos care guide, another easy-to-grow plant often mistaken for philodendrons.
Conclusion
In summary, philodendrons can live outside if cared for right. They do best in warm zones 9-11 where it’s always nice. Move plants slowly between indoors and out so they don’t get shocked by changes. Check for bugs and look for signs of being sick. Give philodendrons mild sun, soaked soil to drain well, and some shade on hot days. Make sure to move them back inside before winter comes. Then you can keep enjoying these lovely leaves all summer in your garden!
References
- https://www.beangrowing.com/can-a-philodendron-be-put-outside/
- https://philodendrontalk.com/philodendron-outdoor-care/
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