Philodendron Mexicanum Care And Top Free Propagation Tips For Gardeners
Gardeners who want plants that are unique exotic, yet easy to maintain should consider Philodendron Mexicanum.
This is an annual evergreen climbing variety that is ideal for offices and apartments. It is a striking combination of colours, with fresh leaves being bright light greens, and the mature leaves taking the form of dark, dark green with a leathery hue.
The undersides of their leaves are in the range of maroon to magenta. In addition, it is a rapid-growing vine if you give it the proper treatment. Why would anyone want to plant Philodendron Mexicanum?
Before we get into the specifics of Philodendron Mexicanum treatment, it’s important to know that it’s a large genus of plants with hundreds of species that are classified within the family of Araceae and native to Mexico.
Philodendron Mexicanum treatment is the simulation of its native habitat of growth as epiphytes that climb trees. They are typically located within Mexico’s Chiapas region, which is humid rain forests that reach an elevation of about 1200 meters (3700 feet).
It can be found throughout Central America in both rain forests as well as dry habitats, particularly in the west-central region of Mexico. It is a climber and draper of the rocks. With this knowledge Let’s get started.
Philodendron Mexicanum Care Summary
Light requirements: | A lot of indirect suns However, there is no direct sunlight. |
Needs for water: | Do a weekly check, water if the soil is dry. |
Fertilizer: | A balanced diet once a month during the spring and summer. |
Soil: | A rich and well-drained mix of potting soil. |
Humidity: | 60%. |
Temperature: | 18-27degC (64-81degF). |
Where to purchase: | Take a look at the Unique Plant Shops. |
Common problems: | Pests and root rot on leaves. |
Philodendron Mexicanum Care Instructions
Soil Mixture
If you want to plant Philodendron Mexicanum inside pots, you will be most likely to get the best results with the most fertile, loose potting soil that is well-drained and rich in organic matter.
A mixture of leaf cooking compost, peat perlite, and moss makes an excellent base. However, beware of moist, muddy or dry soils.
A trusted Philodendron Mexicanum maintenance trick is to make a succulent mix with orchid bark, coconut husk and more. to provide the roots with something to tie themselves to and to allow for drainage.
They prefer it mildly acidic to neutral, with pH ranging from 5-7. But don’t overdo this because the acidity of the soil is constantly changing.
Philodendron Mexicanum maintenance becomes much simpler if you live near the equator, and would like to plant outdoors, straight in the soil.
Any place that has loose soil, and is not low-lying, is a great option. They thrive in organic matter-rich soil. So, make use of plenty of leaf litter, compost that is sterile etc. which helps soil to retain water.
Pro tip: choose an elevated spot on the mound of a plant to grow Philodendron Mexicanum. This will ensure that the landscaping will allow for the natural drainage of excess water.
Philodendron Mexicanum Light Requirements
Philodendron Mexicanum care is to give plenty of sunlight i.e. approximately 70 to 85 per cent exposure to natural, but filtering sunlight.
Keep in mind that they are located beneath the dense forest’s substory i.e. in the shadow of larger trees that serve as canopy trees. Don’t plant Philodendron Mexicanum directly in the sun.
A reliable Philodendron Mexicanum tip for care is to apply a 20-40 per cent shade cloth to block sunlight and shield the plant from injury.
It is an excellent method of tricking the plant to grow faster since they will “reach” for sunlight by creating new leaves.
If they are exposed to intense light, they can suffer from leaf burn. If you plan to take it outside for your pergola or patio, it is recommended that you acclimatize the plant to its new surroundings and gradually transfer it to an area with a lot of sunshine over several weeks or so to prevent stress.
Philodendron Mexicanum Watering
The most common mistake people make when it comes to Philodendron Mexicanum care is watering. Overwatering is the most frequent error when growing Philodendron Mexicanum, and naturally, your nurseryman will advise that you dry the soil before watering.
The optimal levels of watering for Philodendron Mexicanum varies based on the season the climate zone, time of year, and conditions for growth that are unique to your area.
If you reside in the tropical zone and you have Philodendron Mexicanum outside in the ground, it is possible to keep it hydrated every day.
If you plant Philodendron Mexicanum in a container that is well-drained as described above allow the top two inches dry before you repeat the drenching.
It is the time of the year when the plants are in bloom. months i.e. both summer and spring. In winter and the fall it is possible to cut down on watering, but don’t allow your plant to become deficient in water as a rule of thumb.
If you reside in colder regions, then indoors in pots is the most secure way to go. A light watering every week during summer and little watering in winter is the best option.
In my personal experiences, these plants are very fond of water and will grow extremely lush If they are watered frequently.
The best Philodendron Mexicanum care tip I have for you is to adjust your plant with a regular watering routine by slowly increasing it, and cutting it back if needed (the leaves are likely to turn yellow if you overwater them).
For instance, it is possible to change from a weekly cycle that is once a week to a twice-in-ten-days pattern.
It is possible in the case of soil that is well-drained, so be sure you have it correct before you water your plant.
Philodendron Mexicanum Temperature
The plant is a lover of warmth and the most impressive development can be observed close to the edge of the equator. It is often seen at altitudes as high as 1900 meters above sea level, where it can be a bit cool.
You may try to cultivate Philodendron Mexicanum outside when the temperatures in the climatic zone you live in are 15degC during the night and 30 degrees Celsius during the daytime.
This is essentially the perfect climate to cultivate Philodendron Mexicanum. They do not thrive in temperatures that are below 12.75degC (55degF) as well do not tolerate frost.
However, if you’re looking to cultivate Philodendron Mexicanum northern zones, the summer months are fine, however, in colder seasons, the temperature should not fall below 12.75degC (55degF).
In winter, it is recommended to immediately move the plant indoors at all times. When it’s away from frost, it is possible to grow Philodendron Mexicanum with the average temperature of indoor rooms.
If it’s extremely cold outside, they might cease to grow or decrease in size.
Philodendron Mexicanum Care tip It is important to note that they do not like abrupt fluctuations in temperature. Acclimatize the plant in the event of making drastic changes.
Philodendron Mexicanum Humidity
Since they are tropical epiphytes they typically require 20 to 40 per cent air humidity during the day and 80 to 100 per cent at night.
Misting on occasion is beneficial to The Philodendron Mexicanum care. It is possible to use pebbles filled with water, but I’m not a person who would recommend this as there’s a chance of the soil becoming saturated and wet due to the drainage holes.
My preferred method is to make use of humidifiers or mix up a variety that includes Monsteras, Philodendrons as well as Pothos types. This will create a warm and humid environment surrounding the plant’s epiphytes seem to enjoy.
Philodendron Mexicanum Fertilizer
I cultivate Philodendron Mexicanum in soil that is with a high content of decomposed bark and leaf matter that provide organic nutrients to the plant.
I also make use of I use a high-nitrogen fertilizer that aids in increasing the size of leaves and results in more healthy, bigger plants that are extremely desired, especially if you are growing Philodendron Mexicanum because of its dog-eared form.
To ensure that your potted Philodendron Mexicanum maintenance, plan a regular dose of organically balanced fertilizer that you can purchase at the local supermarket.
I like using an emulsion of fish that has been well diluted and applied at intervals of 4 and 6 weeks. It gives an enormous boost during growth months. Make sure you cut down on feeding the plant in winter.
The reason I choose organic fertilizers over chemical ones, especially for aroids such as the philodendrons, is because they are slow-released and safe to use.
If you’re using chemical products, ensure that the product is of good quality free of heavy chemicals and salts that may harm the plant. More importantly, dilute triple the X.
Philodendron Mexicanum Propagation
What is it that makes Philodendron Mexicanum love even more appealing lies in the fact that under the right conditions they are easy to propagate.
Cuttings taken from the growth tips will thrive in vermiculite, potting soil or even water. These techniques are great for cultivating Philodendron Mexicanum since it’s a vining type that has prominent growth nodes that have aerial roots.
The more similar the conditions are to the native habitat of a philodendron the quicker it will begin to root. Growing during the summer and spring during the times when plants are growing phase can also help the process.
Powder for growth hormones according to my experience, isn’t required to grow Philodendron Mexicanum.
Professional nurseries propagate these plants using seeds, however, this process isn’t “idiot-proof”. However, cutting is the best way to go if you wish to plant Philodendron Mexicanum Clones.
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Philodendron Mexicanum Growth Rate
Philodendron Mexicanum maintenance is easy due to its rapid growth after the initial requirements are met.
If you’re planning to grow Philodendron Mexicanum indoors, make sure that it’s not in a busy location or the path of traffic.
The stem is what holds the leaves for between 1 and 2-feet (30 to 60cm). The leaves can reach two feet (60cm) in length with bigger back lobes that measure one 1-foot (30cm) large.
It can reach its average elevation of 2 meters over two years.
Philodendron Mexicanum maintenance doesn’t require regular pruning because pruning does not necessarily cause multiple branches.
Philodendron Mexicanum Potting
Make sure to plant it in a large pot to provide stability. The plant can become quite top-heavy. I prefer using the terracotta pots in my pots, mostly for good drainage and soil airflow.
This is a Philodendron Mexicanum care trick to ensure more lush growth, not the leggy growth one usually encounters. Grow Philodendron Mexicanum on a eucalyptus or peat moss-covered pole, allowing the vine to move around the pole, rather instead of advancing straight upwards.
Make sure that the pole is positioned deep within the pot to ensure it’s secure and stable.
Philodendron Mexicanum Propagation Method – Step By Step
It’s simple to reproduce Philodendron Mexicanum by cuttings of the stem tip or from berries they develop.
Propagate Philodendron Mexicanum from cuttings of the tip
- Select a stem tip from an established mother plant, preferring to locate it in a place where the roots of the aerial part are visible
- Cut the stem’s tip using at minimum two leaf nodes, using the garden scissors.
- Maintain a pot that has an equal mix of perlite and sphagnum moss that’s evenly moist, but not wet enough to wring.
- It is not necessary to use an endocrine to root the cuttings since they usually take root very quickly.
- Stick to the stem using at least one well underneath the soil. Press into the soil to provide support.
- Make sure the pot is in a spot that is fairly bright but keep it away from direct sunlight.
- Make sure the soil is damp until the cutting is set.
Propagate Philodendron Mexicanum in water
- Follow the directions until step 2 of the section above.
- Choose a jar that is at least 3 inches in width and depth enough so that the nodes of the cutting are submerged however the leaves at the end are not. Tips The mouth is not wide enough, the roots break as they pull the cutting.
- Put the cutting into the jar that is filled with clean water.
- Stay in the area in areas with indirect sunlight and do not disturb the cutting
- New roots will emerge from nodes that are submerged in the water for 2 weeks.
- The cutting can be transferred to the soil after the roots are one inch or two in length
Propagate Philodendron Mexicanum by air-layering
You’ll require a 6″ translucent plastic bag and sphagnum moss, and some loose ties.
- Select a node that has aerial roots that are on a leggy stem. Create a slit that is not more than 1/4 of the length of the stem just below the node.
- Make a few tiny holes in the bottom of your plastic bag. place a fistful of damp sphagnum moss on the bottom. Cut off the top of the bag in such a way that flaps be able to wrap across the base of the plant.
- Let’s move on closer to where the plants are. One hand holds the moss, which has been wet in the plastic bag and then against the root node that you have chosen. By wrapping the free hand, cover the flaps of plastic on the stem. The stem is secured using a twisty tie, making an attractive wet moss cocoon to the node.
- Make sure the moss is kept damp by watering the holes in the plastic.
- Within two weeks, you’ll be able to see roots have grown into moss.
- Take the moss off without damaging your new roots. Then cut the stem to the level of the new roots, separating it from its mother
- Plant the new plant in a pot, keeping its soil moist, until established.
Common Problems With Philodendron Mexicanum
Common pests: If you plant Philodendron Mexicanum insects and pests aren’t anything to be concerned about.
The most common pests that attack the plant include moths, aphids (worms) and mealybugs and fungus gnats scales, shore flies and thrips.
They are easily kept away by applying a daily use of soap for insecticides as well as the oil of neem once every month or according to the instructions in the product’s instructions.
My Philodendron Mexicanum maintenance routine to control pests involves washing the leaves using water jets every week when I water the plant and dry them.
The more severe infestations require a more comprehensive treatment, which typically involves chemicals. The University of Florida has a thorough analysis of the various diseases and pests, as well as methods to control vining Philodendrons.
The sudden wilting of leaves or yellowing occurs due to root decay that is caused by excessive watering or infection by fungi that have affected the root.
Make sure you check the root of the plant as soon as you notice. I would save the cuttings, and then try to reproduce them separately in a new pot, using sterile, well-draining and sterile soil.
Unusual tan patches on leaves It may be due to bacteria-related infections, such as those that are often found in Philodendrons like Erwinia Blight and Pseudomonas leaves the spot.
It is easy to determine whether the disease is bacterial by the unpleasant smell that plants emit. The disease is usually seen in smaller plants and is believed as less severe in larger plants that are grown in the soil. The bacterial infection requires moisture to multiply.
First, separate the plant from different plants within your garden. take away the leaves that are affected, reduce watering, and then stop misting the plant. ensure that the leaves are dry, or let them dry out quickly to stop the spread. Bactericides are not usually required.
Black patches appearing on leaf It may be due to exposure to a cold draft. Take off damaged leaves, and move the plant into a more shady spot.
Yellow leaves/brown foliage: If you notice the edges turning dry and brown, you’re drowning. If the leaves begin to turn yellow, as well as the ground, begins to seem like it’s soaking, it may be an indication of excessive watering.
Colour: Pale leaves that lack the typical dark green colour are generally a clear sign of low lighting. The plant should be moved to a brighter area.
TIPS TO KEEP PHILODENDRON MEXICANUM PROBLEM-FREE
Here are some Philodendron Mexicanum care tips that I’ve learned over the years.
The optimal temperature range is 12.75degC between 26 and 26degC (55deg80degF)
Dappled light (or bright light) is the most ideal environment to cultivate Philodendron Mexicanum.
Beware of temperature shocks, such as the sudden move of your plant outdoors or indoors. Acclimatize the plant before taking it outdoors.
Utilize a nitrogen fertilizer to get larger leaf sizes and faster growth.
Maintain the soil well-hydrated throughout the growing season but don’t let it get too wet.
Wash your leaves frequently to avoid dust and pest accumulation. However, ensure that you dry the leaves following washing.
Create humidity by joining in with the other plant species.
Frequent and heavy watering during winter can kill the plant.
Use a totem and weave the vine around it for a bushy appearance.
Take away dead branches and leaves to stop the spread of infections.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PHILODENDRON MEXICANUM
Is Philodendron Mexicanum pet-friendly?
ASPCA states that philodendron can be poisonous to cats and dogs. The plant is insoluble and contains calcium oxalate crystals that are similar to the other plants of the Araceae family. Chewing or gnashing on this plant can release crystals, which can cause tissue penetration and irritation to the mouth and the GI tract. Pets who consume any of the plants might exhibit vomiting, pawing their mouth, a lack of appetite and drooling.
Are the Philodendron Mexicanum similar to Syngonium?
Both have an eared-like leaf shape and are frequently mistaken for one another. They are both kinds of plants and can easily be distinguished by rubbing the leaves. Philos have a shiny leathery texture as opposed to the more delicate, smooth, non-glossy texture of Syngonium. Syngonium.
Does Philodendron Mexicanum remove toxins from the air?
It is possible to grow Philodendron Mexicanum for its purifying effects on the air. They aid in eliminating common household pollutants from the air, such as formaldehyde, making it a good addition to your home. The NASA study on indoor air pollution conducted in 1989 recommended 15-18 plants in 6 – to 8-inch containers to purify the air inside the average 1,800 square feet home.
Can you cultivate Philodendron Mexicanum using seeds?
Technically, yes. However, the plant needs to bloom and when it is planted indoors in pots, they are not likely to flower. Seeds aren’t long-lasting unless they are processed properly as well as vacuum-packed. This is typically the procedure used by professional nursery growers rather than home garden lovers.
Can mist aid in the growth of Philodendron Mexicanum?
Regularly washing plants with water as well as applying insecticide soap can keep insects from destroying the plant. In addition, philodendrons are tropical, and therefore they will benefit from higher humidity, which can lead to the growth of lush foliage and shiny leaves. Keep an eye out for bacteria that can spread through humidity.
Does misting assist in growing Philodendron Mexicanum?
It is recommended to shower the plant regularly using water, and then applying insecticidal soap can help to keep pests out. Additionally, philodendrons can be considered tropical plants, which means that more humidity can encourage the growth of lush foliage and shiny leaves. Keep an eye out for bacteria that can spread through the moisture.
CONCLUSION
Kids are fascinated by watching and cultivating Philodendron Mexicanum due to the small, pointed leaf blades with two appendages on top are reminiscent of the character of Disney’s Pluto. So our plant was christened Pluto!
The most appealing aspect of the Philodendron genus is that there are more than 500 distinct varieties that differ from one another, yet they all have the same maintenance requirements!
You can make an impressive collection of these plants with diverse shapes and colours without worrying about the proper care for each one! This is a characteristic that can transform even the most reticent person into a keen gardener!
If you’re just beginning to learn about gardening at home, I’d advise you to experiment with the Marble Pothos, Philodendron Brandtianum and The Philodendron Billietiae All of them are suitable for an indoor setting.
As per Clemens College of Agriculture, These are close-related plants. I would also suggest that to read these useful home plant tips before embarking on your journey to the green.
Happy indoor gardening!
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