Philodendron Congo Rojo Care And Tips – 2022 Ultimate Guide
Philodendron Congo Rojo Care: The Philodendron Congo Rojo is a distinct cultivar that has been hybridized in Florida and is in line with the increasing demand among homeowners seeking tropical aroids that can be used for indoor cultivation. They’re beautiful plants that add a touch of luxury and a touch of exotic to your indoor garden.
“Rojo Congo” by Philodendron Congo Rojo is an intermixture of the Philodendron “Imperial Red” and Philodendron Tate. It’s a self-supporting self header, so you don’t need to support it with stakes or an ungainly moss stake to move around. It is positioned in a beautiful rosette with its upright oval leaves that are burgundy in hue.
Be aware that the plant may be Note that the plant can be harmful to pet owners. With the ease of Philodendron Congo Rojo takes care of even novices can take care of the plant with a little direction. But, you must be aware of the fundamentals otherwise you could lose the plant to mistakes made by a novice.
How do you determine “Rojo Congo” as the Philodendron “Rojo Congo” cultivar
There are a variety of similar hybrids being offered in nurseries as well as online shops, I’ll assist you in identifying that particular hybrid.
- This plant can be described as a self-heading plant with leaves that form tiny rosettes.
- The plant grows laterally and can become quite broad when compared with the other hybrid cultivars.
- These dark-green leaves are oval or elliptical. those that are newly emerged are light green with a hint of red. The petioles have a purple-brown colour.
- It is thicker and has longer petioles as well as slightly larger leaves than other species.
- The plant is growing fairly quickly under ideal conditions.
Philodendron Congo Rojo Care
You can cultivate Philodendron Congo Rojo perfectly with temperatures ranging from 65 to 80 degF (18 27 – 27 degC). They are tolerant of a small dryness, however, I would recommend regular moisture to ensure abundant growth. It is important to note that soggy soil is an absolute no-no for plants and is it is the leading cause of death. So, the soil used for potting should be very thin, porous, and well-drained. A bright light source or dappled sun and humidity of up to 50% is desirable.
Soil Mixture
Philodendron Congo Rojo is designed to be kept indoors. The soil that is pot soil is the most important element of the plant’s foundation. If you can get this right the other elements of Philodendron Congo Rojo will flow naturally. Make use of loose, crumbly, and porous soil, which drains efficiently so that the plant’s roots can breathe. Any coarse and chunky material like the coco chip, perlite bark bits, fine gravel sand and so on. could work.
The mix should also retain moisture without being waterlogged. To achieve this, you should utilize a large amount of organic matter, which does not just provide water but also offers nutrition to the plant. In the end, they are epiphytic plants that are found in nature that live off organic matter that has been gathered within the root system.
I would suggest fresh peat moss or coco peat and sphagnum. Alternatively, you can use sterile leaf much, kitchen compost, dung manure, etc. to add organic matter to the substrate. The proportion of organic content to inorganic must be between 50 and 50.
If you find this too confusing and easy way to get a Philodendron Congo Rojo care trick is to purchase a high-quality mix of cactus and peat.
Philodendron Congo Rojo Light Requirements
The Philodendron Congo Rojo requires ample light indirect to ensure the best development. The broad, as well as dark-green leaves, indicate a shade-loving plant. The plant loses the red hue of the leaves when it is in a prolonged and dense shade.
If you’re planning to grow The Philodendron Congo Rojo indoors, an indoor east-facing room or east or west-facing window area is optimal. From my personal experience, if it gets some direct sunlight for just a half-hour, it shouldn’t cause harm to the plant. It won’t thrive in direct sunlight because the sun’s rays burn the foliage.
If you reside in colder regions where temperatures are low, you’ll have to plant the Philodendron Congo Rojo under fluorescent light during the wintertime for around 12 hours per day.
Philodendron Congo Rojo Watering
My experience is that watering is an essential element for Philodendron Congo Rojo treatment. Insufficient or little water could cause the plant to die. Here are some guidelines for the watering of these hybrid plants.
It is a Philodendron Congo Rojo maintenance that requires an amount of moisture more than natural philodendron species that can withstand dry periods. The exact watering schedule that applies to your plant will depend on the specific conditions you give it.
The climatic zone of the plant, the conditions, the location of the plants, the air humidity and, of course, the soil’s type is all variables that influence the cycle of watering. This is a straightforward test you can perform. Pin the topsoil about two inches in depth. If the soil is a dry, plant with the water you use to plant.
In summer, this will be approximately once every three days, if you’re kept inside. In winter, you’ll have to reduce your intake.
Be aware that the soil needs to be completely dry and well-drained to allow water to drain frequently. If you squeeze it, it has to relax and break easily with your fingertips. In that scenario, your plant will be protected.
Temperature
Philodendron Congo Rojo needs the warmth of the tropical region, so if are located near the equator you’re in luck. However, this cultivar has been hybridized to suit indoor gardens and adapts to warmer temperatures in the room.
Temperatures that are between 65 and 80degF (18 27 degC) is the ideal temperature for this plant, however, it could take as high as 95 degF (35degC). It doesn’t mean that you put your plants in extreme temperatures, like putting them on top or behind your heating system. If they get warmer, put the plant in light that is filtered and allow it to hydrate for a long time.
They have no frost tolerance. Temperatures lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13degC) can end the life of the plant. So, it is important to move them indoors to keep them out of cold breezes.
Humidity
This tropical variety thrives in humid conditions. But, if you plant the Philodendron Congo Rojo indoors throughout the year, this plant will be able to withstand the dryness of air-conditioned rooms.
Any humidity that is above 50 per cent is what I suggest for the most effective results. But don’t go crazy over it. Simply spray it with water once a week or so or rub the foliage using a water-soaked sponge. A humidifier during the dry season is always an ideal idea.
It’s not necessary to go overboard with the humidity level if the soil’s moisture levels are optimal. Plants can withstand the occasional dryness of the air. However, you’ll notice an improvement in the plant’s health if you can offer the humidity that it requires.
Fertilizing
I prefer to plant Philodendron Congo Rojo without chemical fertilizers like fertilizers. The plants only require organic soil amendments that function as efficient fertilisers that release slowly.
The compost, mulch, decomposed material organic manure, animal dung sterile peat, moss and so on. are rich in nutrients plants require and isn’t harmful to it in any way.
This is why I choose organic plant food over chemical fertilizers, especially for tropical evergreens such as the philodendrons. Since, in their natural habitats, they receive nutrients that are slowly released.
One Philodendron Congo Rojo Care hack is to add the dung manure of the dung of horses, rabbits or cow dung, or chickens. The addition of these to loosening topsoil at the beginning of spring can help to increase growth throughout the growing season.
After all, all that remains is the fact that Philodendron Congo Rojo care is a hybrid cultivar that is well suited to chemical fertilizers that are balanced. Use a good quality fertilizer that will not cause salt accumulation within the soil.
I would suggest using a liquid solution to boost the growth of your foliage. Liquids are very easy to dilute, and you can reduce the amount of chemical to a third of the recommended concentration. Sprinkle the soil with water If you fertilize. Do not feed in winter.
Philodendron Congo Rojo Propagation
The most common method of propagation for climbing philodendrons involves cutting their stems since climbing varieties are characterized by clearly visible nodes. But, Philodendron Congo Rojo was hybridized into houseplants that don’t grow aggressively.
Self headers are also difficult to propagate since there are no visible internodes from which to take cuttings. They are generally propagated by tissues cultivation in nurseries. The tissue culture plant is thought to be hard to reproduce.
It is essential to wait for other processes of nature to spread the plant. Philodendron Congo Rojo. If you cultivate Philodendron Congo Rojo in optimal conditions, once the plant is mature enough, it will begin to produce plants at the base. They can be potted in groups when they’re big enough.
This is a step-by-step instruction for Philodendron Congo Rojo propagation.
Philodendron Congo Rojo Growth Rate
Philodendron Congo Rojo is a great indoor plant that has a vigorous growth habit that is suitable for long-term growth in pots. However, the dimension of the plants vertically and laterally can be quite large. It can reach over 1.1 meters (42 inches) in width and around 75 centimetres (30 inches) in the height.
The mature burgundy-coloured green leaves spread out across large and upright petioles. It is huge and takes up a lot of space, and is it’s not something I’d suggest for small New York-style apartments. It’s a fantastic option for office interiors as focal points or centrepieces. Its status as well-known as an HTML1cleaner of air is a benefit.
As the plant gets bigger, you’ll notice that it becomes super heavy, so your choice of planter must be designed to accommodate this. Philodendron Congo Rojo care doesn’t need pruning. Regular removal of leaves that are discoloured stems and dry aerial roots to freshen up the look is enough.
Potting
It is essential to plant Philodendron Congo Rojo in an extremely large pot. The best pot to grow mature plants is a 15 ” (38 centimetres) terracotta or ceramic planter.
If you purchase a young plant, it won’t require a large planter from the start. In the initial few years, this plant is growing quite fast. Therefore, you’ll have to repot each year in a slightly larger pot. If the roots start to grow out extend to the sides or over the drain hole, you are aware that it’s time to change the pot.
They’re very content being in a root-bound. Its roots can form a tight circle around any pieces in the soil such as bricks or branches. The plant also grows aerial roots which enhance its appearance of the plant.
propagating Philodendron Congo Rojo – Step-by-Step Instructions
The techniques of tissue culture botanists utilize to reproduce the Philodendron Congo Rojo aren’t feasible for gardeners at home. However, I’ll discuss a few methods that I have found to work for me. I strongly suggest that you conduct Philodendron Congo Rojo propagation under warmer weather and in high humidity conditions. Spring is the best time to propagate. This increases the odds of success.
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Propagate Philodendron Congo Rojo from plantlets
In this way, it is necessary to be reliant on the moods of nature. You will likely need to keep an eye on the plant until its mature “Rojo Congo” plant has grown quite mature.
- There are tiny plants at the bottom of the plant, where the stem is named after the old leaves are snuffed out.
- Allow the plantlets to increase in size to four to five inches, or until the stem can be seen.
- A tip for you: It can take anywhere from a month up to three months based on the environment in which it is growing. Planting the mother plant in a light-filled area will help the plantlets develop faster.
- Choose a plantlet that is rooted in the ground.
- Apply an air-layering technique (detailed further below) to develop the roots more. The process of air layering can take 2 to 3 weeks.
- Once you are ready to plant, remove the plantlet from the mother and plant it on its own in the soil.
- Follow up on Philodendron Congo Rojo treatment as normal.
How do you lay down your Philodendron air layer “Rojo Congo”
Maintain in a six” transparent ziplock bag, a few Sphagnum mosses, and a few loose ties on hand.
- Create holes in the top of your bag, then put enough sphagnum moss that is wet in it.
- Cut wings or flaps off on high points on the bags, so they can be wrapped around the stem you wish to air-layer.
Let’s go there to our plant.
- Find small black bumps that appear on the plantlet’s stem that could be aerial projections of the root.
- With a sharp, clean knife, make a small cut that is about 2mm wide beneath the projection, where you would like the plantlet to sprout new roots.
- Then, hold the moss inside the plastic bag and press it against this cut using one hand, taking care not to damage the plantlet.
- Utilizing your free hand, use your free hand to wrap the wings about the stem.
- The moss nest should be secured to the plant by a loose tie.
- Keep the moss moist by watering gaps within the bag.
- After a couple of weeks, it will be possible to see new roots sprouting to form moss.
- Take the nest out carefully without damaging the roots.
- With a sharp garden knife, cut the plantlet just below the new roots, and then separate the cutting.
- The cutting can be placed under shade till the plant is established.
Propagate Philodendron Congo Rojo from the root/stem division
I’m advising you to be aware that this technique destroys the rosette-like shape in the Philodendron Congo Rojo but it will produce numerous plantlets very quickly If you’re successful. It is best to use an established plant with an elongated well-groomed stem.
- Remove the plant from its pot and clear the soil from the root. You can also wash the roots to ensure that the stem that is thick in the middle is evident.
- Note the number of divisions you’d like to have along this stem. A minimum of 2 to 3 leaf per division are a good number.
- A sharp garden knife, slice through the stem’s thick layer and then separate each section as well as the roots
- Give them a rest for a few days to allow the cut to heal before planting them into individual pots
- It is possible to place the stem in pots that contain Sphagnum moss that has been moistened
- Put them in a humid place, perhaps close to a humidifier
- Within 2 to 4 weeks, you’ll be able to see new roots and maybe even the start of an erect plantlet
- After the plantlets grow to 2 inches in height, you can then transfer them to a 50:50 mix of peat perlite
- In the next 6 months, the plant is expected to be relocated in the standard method.
Common Issues in conjunction with Philodendron Congo Rojo
Lesions of brown along the leaf’s edge
One of the most common ailments that are found in Philodendron “Rojo Congo ” is a bacterial disease known as Erwinia blight. It is triggered when the plant’s leaves are constantly damp due to the overhead watering process, according to the guidelines of Penn State University.
It is imperative to remove immediately the damaged leaves, as well as the water in a way that keeps the petiole and the leaves, dry fast. It is important to remove the leaves at a safe distance from all plants. Air circulation is crucial for healthy growth.
Transparent leaf spots
If you notice yellow lines around the spots, and an unpleasant smell of the liquid inside, it is likely to be an infection that is caused by Xanthomonas. Check that the plant is not contaminated by these spots before purchasing it from a nursery. Care for it similar to the one above, i.e. don’t overwater and ensure that the crown of the plant stays dry.
The leaf is dark with patches of darkness
This usually happens when you expose the plant to cold winds overnight. It is important to move the pot to a warmer location far from the opening.
Leaves turn yellow
There is often the yellow colour of leaves on plants that are constantly overwatered. Inexperienced gardeners can get enthusiastic about buying the newest philodendron, and then water extremely enthusiastically. All you have to do is put brakes on your watering to stop the turning yellow. There is a possibility of losing one or two leaves, however, if the root hasn’t been rotten, the plant will be able to survive.
Crispy edges with brown colour
The reverse is truly similar to the previously mentioned. If you don’t water the plant for a whole week or 10 days and the soil becomes bone dry, you’ll have a crisp edge. Do not immediately soak the soil with water and give your plant a shock of water. Relax until the plant has adapted to a regular watering routine.
Pale leaves colour
If the distinctive burgundy-coloured leaves begin to fade or the plant is showing slow growth, it indicates that Philodendron Congo Rojo should be moved to more bright lighting. The low light can weaken the colour of the leaves.
Common pests
If you have a Philodendron plant “Rojo Congo” pests are generally not something to be concerned about. There are times when it is affected by the aphids as well as the mealybugs.
The best prevention is to apply an insecticide soap as well as neem oils once every month or according to the instructions in the product’s instructions. The Philodendron Congo Rojo maintenance routine involves washing the leaves down with water jets every week after I water my plant and drying the leaves.
The more severe infestations require more careful treatment that typically includes chemicals.
Tips to keep Philodendron Congo Rojo problem-free
- Keep room temperatures within the 65-80degF (18 27 – 27degC) all through the year.
- The plant isn’t susceptible to frost, so be sure to keep it in the shade and protect it from cold winds.
- Indirect sunlight is the most effective lighting for the growth of Philodendron Congo Rojo
- Philodendron Congo Rojo thrives well when fed organic feed or extremely weak chemical fertilization
- Maintain the soil’s moisture level throughout the growing season.
- Clean the leaves and apply insecticide soap and sprays of neem oil regularly to guard against pests
- Air circulation is essential to prevent the spread of bacterial infections
- A high level of humidity can encourage an abundance of growth and shiny foliage, which is why it’s recommended to spray your plant with mist frequently.
- Develop Philodendron Congo Rojo in a substantial ceramic or terracotta planter that is heavy enough to give the plant a solid foundation.
- Repot in spring, before the peak growth season
Commonly asked questions regarding Philodendron Congo Rojo
Does Philodendron Congo Rojo poisonous for pets?
The plant is harmful to cats and dogs. It contains calcium oxalate crystals insoluble like other plants of the Araceae family. When you chew or bite into the plant releases crystals which can irritate the mouth and the GI tract. Pets might be prone to vomiting, pawing the mouth, a lack of appetite and drooling.
Do the Philodendron Congo Rojo sprout out of seeds?
Professional botanists propagate their plants through tissue cultivation. It is difficult to find seeds from this plant. Particularly in indoor environments, the plants aren’t able to flower. Home gardeners have to use methods of propagation as described earlier.
How do I make Philodendron Congo Rojo look fuller?
In case your garden is slow to grow, you must provide it with nutrients to help with the growth of the foliage. You can refer to the section on fertilization for more information. Also, check if your roots are getting tight. It is possible to repot the plant in a larger planter using new, nutrient-rich soil.
Do you need to spray Philodendron Congo Rojo?
The practice of feeding your plants with rainwater is a good option for the Philodendron Congo Rojo. Misting can keep pests out, however, it can also trigger the spread of bacterial infections. Clean the leaves after misting.
Conclusion On Philodendron Congo Rojo
If you’re trying to establish an exotic space inside your home Philodendron Congo Rojo is an excellent plant to include in your collection. As it pertains to indoor self-headers it’s a great cultivar to think about since it will add an extra dimension to your collection.
I love this plant because of its distinctive leaf colour. The burgundy-coloured green makes an ideal backdrop against which the other plants just appear.
If there is a tropical garden installed in your home that has adequate illumination, warmth and humidity, you must consider planting anthuriums, begonias, and peperomias to provide diverse textures and colours in the background.
I would recommend that you review our guides to caring for plants like Peperomia Japonica Begonia Rex as well as Anthurium Villenaorum. We have an extensive collection of guides to tropical plant care that you can browse through.
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