Leaf Spot on Philodendron

Philodendrons have long been considered one of the easiest to grow – hardest to kill houseplants. But even these robust beauties can suffer from too much love and attention.

Don’t be embarrassed if you’ve killed this supposedly indestructible plant – many gardeners have. The most common complaints are yellow leaves with brown spots.

Leaf spot diseases are usually the culprit and improper watering the cause.

Take a close look at the container and your watering regimen. Make sure the pot has holes in the bottom for drainage. No matter how good a gardener, it is impossible to provide exactly the right amount of moisture every time you water.

Move your plant to a container with drainage holes if needed. For best results water this and most houseplants thoroughly whenever the top couple inches of soil feels like a damp sponge. Pour off any excess water that collects in the saucer. Plants sitting in water are more subject to root rot and leaf spot diseases.

A bit more information: Reduce your work load and improve your plants’ growing environment by placing stones or marbles in the saucer. The excess water can collect in the saucer while the marbles elevate the pot and plant roots above the water. As the water evaporates it increases the humidity around the plant where it is needed.