Philodendron Rojo Congo Plant Care Tips

Philodendron Rojo Congo Lighting & Position

Philodendrons come from the humid forests of South America, so they thrive in a warm and well lit position with bright indirect light. Keep them away from drafts and heating/cooling units as they won’t like cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.

Philodendron Rojo Congo Watering

It’s important to keep up a regular watering routine. In summer you want to keep the soil moist but not soggy. To monitor this, you can use your finger to poke into the top 5 cm of potting mix and feel the soil moisture level before watering. If it feels wet, let it dry out for longer. Over watering can lead to fungal issues or root rot. Try watering once a week, using just enough water to start to see some draining from the bottom of the pot. During winter, when the plant isn’t in an active growing phase you should reduce watering frequency. 

As with all plants, drainage is essential. Ensure that whatever vessel your plant is in, there are sufficient holes in the bottom to allow excess water to freely drain from the pot and away from the plant’s roots. 

Philodendron Rojo Congo Humidity

Many Philodendrons aren’t as fussed as some of the other aroids in terms of humidity, but they will appreciate moderate humidity so group them together, pop them on a pebble tray and If you want to go all out, buying a small humidifier online and placing that amongst your humidity loving plants can go a long way in providing the rainforest climate they will thrive in

N.b. misting with a spray bottle will only improve humidity temporarily, and if done excessively can lead to fungal issues. Misting should only be done occasionally and is most effective as part of your leaf cleaning routine (mist and then gently wipe leaves with a cloth to clear away dust from the leaf surface)

Philodendron Rojo Congo Fertiliser

Feed with liquid fertiliser fortnightly over the warm, growing period and not at all over the cooler winter months.

We recommend using our Plant Food available here. 

Philodendron Rojo Congo Extra Tips

Many Philodendrons will need some form of support to attach to as they grow. You can provide this a number of ways. One option is to wrap coconut fibre around a piece of pvc pipe, a stick or wooden stake. Attach the fibre firmly with wire or string and then gently tie your plant onto the support to help it attach. You can also buy ready made ‘plant totem poles’ online or at some nurseries so have a look around! If you would like to make your own this short video from a recent gardening australia episode will show you how: https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/indoor-plant-totem/9704530

Once a month you can wipe down the plants leaves using a damp cloth to clean away any dust that has collected and may be preventing the leaves from breathing. You can also prune off any damaged or dying leaves using a sharp pair of scissors or secateurs. 

Philodendron Rojo Congo Toxicity

N.b. this plant is toxic if ingested for both humans and animals so keep it away from kids or your furry friends!