What’s the Proper Way to Water a Philodendron Plant?

When you bring home a philodendron plant, you want to keep it happy and healthy. One of the most important parts of plant care is watering. Many plant owners feel unsure about how much water to give their plants. Water too little, and your plant will dry out. Water too much, and the roots might rot. Let’s talk about the best way to water your philodendron so it can grow big and strong.

Philodendrons come from warm, wet places. They need the right amount of water to stay healthy. In this guide, we will walk through everything you need to know about watering your philodendron plant. We will cover how often to water, how much water to use, and signs that show your plant needs more or less water. By the end, you will feel sure about how to care for your leafy friend.

How Often Should You Water Philodendron Plants?

The question of how often to water your philodendron needs a clear answer. Most philodendrons need water when the top inch of soil feels dry to your touch. This might mean watering once a week in warm months and less often in cold months. The key is to check your plant rather than follow a strict schedule.

Your home has its own set of conditions that affect how fast soil dries. A plant in a sunny window will need more water than one in a shady spot. A plant in a clay pot will dry out faster than one in a plastic pot. The size of your plant and pot also makes a difference. Bigger plants in bigger pots may need less frequent watering because they hold more soil and water.

Many plant owners worry about getting the timing right. The best way to know is to stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry at that depth, it’s time to water. If it still feels damp, wait a few more days and check again. This simple test is more helpful than any calendar reminder.

The seasons change how much water your plant needs. In spring and summer, your philodendron grows more and uses more water. In fall and winter, it slows down and needs less water. Pay attention to these changes and adjust how often you water.

The Finger Test for Watering Philodendrons

The finger test is the easiest way to know if your philodendron needs water. Here’s how you do it:

Stick your index finger into the soil up to your first knuckle (about an inch deep).
Pull your finger out and feel if soil clings to it.
If your finger comes out clean and dry, your plant needs water.
If soil sticks to your finger and feels damp, wait a few more days before watering.

This test works because most philodendrons like to dry out a bit between waterings. They don’t want to sit in wet soil all the time. Checking with your finger lets you water based on what your plant needs, not just on a set schedule.

Some people worry that this method isn’t exact enough. But plants don’t need exact care – they just need the right general conditions. The finger test has worked for plant owners for years. It’s simple, free, and helps you get to know your plant better.

Seasonal Changes in Watering Needs

Your philodendron’s need for water changes with the seasons. Here’s what to expect:

Spring and Summer: Your plant will grow more in these warm months. It will use more water and may need watering once a week or more.

Fall and Winter: As days get shorter and cooler, your plant will grow less. It may need water only every 10-14 days.

The indoor heat in winter can dry out the air, which might make you think your plant needs more water. But be careful – the plant is growing less, so it uses less water. It’s better to keep checking the soil and water only when the top inch feels dry.

When seasons change, watch your plant more often until you learn its new rhythm. This helps you avoid both over and under watering as conditions change.

How Much Water Does a Philodendron Need?

Knowing how much water to give your philodendron is just as important as knowing when to water. The goal is to wet all the soil in the pot without making it soggy.

When you water, pour slowly until water starts to come out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This shows that water has reached all the soil. Let the extra water drain out completely. Never let your plant sit in a puddle of water, as this can lead to root rot.

A common mistake is to give just a little water that only wets the top layer of soil. This creates shallow roots and doesn’t give your plant the deep drink it needs. Deep watering helps roots grow stronger and reach deeper into the pot.

The size of your pot matters when deciding how much water to use. A small 4-inch pot might need just a half cup of water, while a large 10-inch pot could need several cups. Rather than measuring, it’s better to water until you see it flowing from the drainage holes.

Bottom Watering Method for Philodendrons

Bottom watering is a great way to make sure your philodendron gets enough moisture. Here’s how to do it:

Fill a sink, tub, or tray with a few inches of water.
Place your plant’s pot in the water (make sure the pot has drainage holes).
Let the plant sit for 15-30 minutes.
The soil will soak up water through the drainage holes.
Take the plant out and let excess water drain.

This method helps ensure even watering and encourages roots to grow downward. It can also help prevent some pests that prefer dry top soil. Many plant owners use this method once a month and water from the top the rest of the time.

Bottom watering is also neat and clean since you won’t spill water on leaves or floors. It’s a good skill to learn for all your houseplants, not just philodendrons.

Signs of Underwatering vs. Overwatering

It helps to know the signs that show if you’re giving too much or too little water.

Signs of Underwatering:

Drooping or wilting leaves
Dry, crispy leaf edges or tips
Leaves turning yellow or brown
Soil pulling away from the sides of the pot
Slow or stopped growth

Signs of Overwatering:

Soft, mushy stems
Yellow leaves throughout the plant (not just old leaves)
Wet, soggy soil
Mold on the soil surface
Bad smell from the soil
Root rot (brown, mushy roots if you check)

By watching for these signs, you can adjust your watering before serious damage happens. Remember that it’s usually easier to fix underwatering than overwatering. A dry plant can recover quickly with water, but a plant with rotting roots might not recover at all.

What Type of Water is Best for Philodendrons?

The type of water you use matters for your philodendron’s health. These plants can be sensitive to chemicals found in tap water.

Room temperature water is best for philodendrons. Cold water can shock the roots and stress the plant. If you use tap water, let it sit out overnight so chlorine can evaporate and the water can warm up.

Some tap water has high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium (hard water). These can build up in the soil over time and harm your plant. If you notice white crust forming on your soil or pot, this might be mineral buildup.

The best water options for philodendrons are:

Rainwater: Natural and free of added chemicals
Filtered water: Removes most harmful chemicals
Distilled water: Very pure, with minerals removed
Tap water that has sat out overnight: Allows chlorine to evaporate

While you don’t need to use bottled water for your plants, being mindful of water quality can help your philodendron stay healthy for years.

Water Quality and Philodendron Health

The quality of water affects your philodendron’s overall health. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, water quality can impact plant growth significantly.

Tap water often contains fluoride and chlorine to make it safe for people. These chemicals can build up in your philodendron’s soil over time. Some plants are more sensitive to these chemicals than others, but many philodendron varieties show signs of stress when watered with untreated tap water for long periods.

Signs that your philodendron might be reacting to chemicals in water include:

Brown leaf tips even when watering is correct
Smaller new leaves than normal
Slow growth despite good light and care
Yellow spots on leaves that don’t match typical pest or disease patterns

If you see these signs and know you’re watering correctly, try switching to filtered or rainwater for a few weeks to see if your plant improves.

The Impact of Water Temperature

The temperature of water can surprise your philodendron in ways you might not expect. These plants grow in warm rainforests, so cold water can shock their roots.

Always use room temperature water for your philodendron. Very cold water can damage roots and stress the plant. Very hot water can also harm the roots and kill helpful soil organisms.

If you keep your water in a watering can near your plants, it will always be the right temperature when it’s time to water. This small step makes a big difference in how well your plant responds to watering.

Best Watering Techniques for Philodendron Plants

How you water is just as important as when you water. Good watering techniques help your philodendron grow strong and healthy.

The best way to water most philodendrons is to pour water slowly at the base of the plant, directly onto the soil. Try not to get water on the leaves, as wet leaves can lead to fungal problems. A watering can with a long, narrow spout helps direct water right to the soil.

Water the entire soil surface, not just one spot. This encourages roots to spread throughout the pot. Pour slowly so water has time to soak in rather than run straight through the pot.

After watering, empty any water that collects in the saucer under the pot. Plants should never sit in standing water as this leads to root rot. If your pot doesn’t have drainage holes, consider repotting into one that does. Drainage is essential for philodendron health.

Some plant owners find that self-watering pots or water meters help them water correctly. These tools can be helpful, especially if you tend to forget to water or water too much. But even with these tools, it’s good to check the soil yourself sometimes.

Watering Hanging Philodendrons

Hanging philodendrons like heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) need special care when watering. Here are some tips:

Take the plant down from its hanging spot to water it thoroughly.
Water until it runs through the drainage holes.
Let it drain completely before hanging it back up.
Never water just a little bit while the plant is still hanging, as this leads to poor root development.

It takes more effort to water hanging plants properly, but it’s worth it for their health. If taking the plant down is too difficult, consider using a watering tool with a long spout that can reach the soil surface without spilling.

Hanging plants often dry out faster than plants on tables or floors because they get more air circulation. Check them more frequently, especially in warm or dry conditions.

Watering Large Philodendron Specimens

Large philodendrons, like tree philodendrons (Philodendron bipinnatifidum) or philodendron ‘Hope’ (Philodendron selloum), need special watering care:

Use a large amount of water to thoroughly soak the entire root ball.
Water slowly to allow it to soak in rather than run off.
Consider using a moisture meter for very large pots where the finger test is harder to use.
Water less often but more deeply than smaller plants.

Large philodendrons in big pots dry out more slowly than small ones. Don’t water on the same schedule as your smaller plants. Check the soil and only water when the top few inches are dry.

These large plants can be dramatic when they need water, with leaves drooping noticeably. Don’t worry if this happens occasionally – they usually perk back up quickly after watering. Just try not to let them get to this point too often.

Common Watering Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even careful plant owners make watering mistakes sometimes. Knowing common problems helps you avoid them.

The most common watering mistakes with philodendrons are:

Overwatering: This is the number one killer of houseplants. Remember that philodendrons like to dry out slightly between waterings. Never water on a strict schedule without checking the soil first.

Underwatering: While philodendrons can tolerate drying out occasionally, constant underwatering leads to stress and poor growth. If you often forget to water, set reminders or consider self-watering pots.

Watering from a strict schedule: Plants don’t need water on a fixed schedule. Their needs change with seasons, growth, and home conditions. Always check the soil before watering.

Watering just a little bit: Light watering leads to shallow roots and doesn’t rinse away mineral buildup. Water deeply each time, until it flows from the drainage holes.

Ignoring drainage: Every philodendron pot needs drainage holes. Without them, water collects at the bottom and causes root rot.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you give your philodendron the best chance to thrive.

How to Fix an Overwatered Philodendron

If you’ve been giving your philodendron too much water, here’s how to help it recover:

Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out.
Move the plant to a spot with good light and air flow to help the soil dry faster.
If the soil stays wet for more than a week, consider repotting in fresh, dry soil.
Trim away any mushy, rotting roots before repotting.
Remove any yellow or mushy leaves – they won’t recover.

After taking these steps, water much less frequently. Wait until the top 1-2 inches of soil are completely dry before watering again. Your plant may look sad for a while, but with proper care, it can recover.

Prevention is always better than treatment. If you’re unsure whether to water, it’s usually better to wait another day or two. Philodendrons generally tolerate dryness better than wetness.

How to Revive an Underwatered Philodendron

If your philodendron is suffering from too little water, here’s how to bring it back:

Water thoroughly right away, until water flows from the drainage holes.
If the soil is very dry and water runs straight through without soaking in, place the pot in a few inches of water for 30 minutes to allow the soil to absorb moisture from the bottom.
Trim away any completely dead, crispy leaves.
Keep the plant out of direct sun while it recovers.

Most underwatered philodendrons bounce back quickly once they get a good drink. Within 24 hours, you should see leaves perking up and looking fresher. Going forward, try to water more consistently, checking the soil regularly.

Even if your plant looks very sad, don’t give up too quickly. Philodendrons are tough and can often recover from severe underwatering if the roots are still alive.

Watering Different Types of Philodendrons

While all philodendrons have similar basic needs, different types may have slightly different watering preferences.

Climbing philodendrons (like heartleaf philodendron) often have smaller leaves and dry out a bit faster than their larger cousins. They may need slightly more frequent watering.

Self-heading philodendrons (like Philodendron ‘Birkin’ or ‘Prince of Orange’) form a rosette of leaves and don’t climb. These varieties often have thicker leaves that store more water, so they may be able to go a bit longer between waterings.

Philodendrons with very large leaves (like Philodendron gloriosum or Philodendron pastazanum) may need more humidity in addition to proper watering. Consider misting the air around these plants (not the leaves directly) or using a humidifier.

No matter what type of philodendron you have, the basic rule remains: water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Adjust frequency based on your specific plant’s response.

Watering Philodendrons in Different Potting Media

The type of soil or potting mix you use affects how you should water your philodendron.

Peat-based mixes: These are common for philodendrons. They hold moisture well but can be hard to re-wet if they dry out completely. Water thoroughly when the top inch is dry.

Coco coir mixes: These sustainable alternatives to peat hold water well but drain better. They’re easier to re-wet than peat. Water when the top inch is dry.

Chunky, airy mixes with orchid bark, perlite, or pumice: These drain very quickly and dry out faster. You may need to water more frequently, perhaps when only the top half-inch is dry.

Soil in terra cotta pots dries faster than in plastic or ceramic pots because the clay absorbs and releases moisture. Adjust your watering accordingly.

As you get to know your philodendron, pay attention to how quickly its specific pot and soil combination dries out. This helps you develop the perfect watering routine.

Watering Newly Potted or Repotted Philodendrons

Freshly potted or repotted philodendrons need special watering care as they adjust to their new home.

When you first repot a philodendron:

Water thoroughly right after repotting to help soil settle around the roots.
For the next 1-2 weeks, keep the soil slightly more moist than usual (but never soggy).
After this adjustment period, return to normal watering when the top inch of soil is dry.

New soil sometimes repels water at first. If you notice water running straight through without soaking in, try the bottom watering method described earlier until the soil starts accepting water normally.

During the first month after repotting, watch your plant carefully for signs of stress. Some adjustment period is normal, but if the plant continues to struggle, you might need to adjust your watering approach.

Seasonal Watering Calendar for Philodendrons

While you should always check your soil rather than water on a fixed schedule, here’s a general guide to how your philodendron’s needs might change throughout the year:

Spring (March-May):

Plant begins active growth
Soil starts drying faster as days lengthen
Typically water every 7-10 days
Watch for new leaves as a sign of health

Summer (June-August):

Peak growing season
Warmer temperatures cause faster drying
May need water every 5-7 days
Consider increasing humidity in very hot, dry conditions

Fall (September-November):

Growth begins to slow
Soil takes longer to dry as days shorten
Usually water every 10-14 days
Begin transition to winter care

Winter (December-February):

Dormant period with minimal growth
Indoor heating may dry air but plant uses less water
Typically water every 2-3 weeks
Watch carefully for overwatering signs

These are just guidelines. Your home’s conditions, your specific philodendron variety, and your pot size all affect how often you need to water. Always check the soil first.

Holiday and Vacation Watering Tips

Holidays and vacations can disrupt your plant care routine. Here’s how to keep your philodendron happy when you’re away:

For Short Trips (2-7 days):

Water thoroughly right before leaving
Move the plant away from direct sun to slow drying
Most philodendrons will be fine for a week without water

For Longer Absences (1-3 weeks):

Consider a self-watering system (wicking setups, water bulbs, self-watering pots)
Ask a friend to water (leave clear instructions)
Group plants together to create a humid microclimate
Use a humidity tray under pots to slow water loss

If you travel often, consider plants like philodendrons that can tolerate some drying out between waterings. They’re more forgiving than plants that need constant moisture.

Adjusting Watering for Indoor Climate Changes

Your home’s climate changes throughout the year, affecting how you water your philodendron.

Heating Season:

Indoor heating dries the air
Soil may dry faster despite slower plant growth
Consider using a humidifier
Group plants together to maintain humidity
Watch for brown leaf tips (sign of dry air)

Air Conditioning Season:

AC removes moisture from air
Plants near vents may dry out faster
Keep plants away from direct air flow
Soil may stay wet longer in rooms that aren’t used as much
Watch for signs of overwatering in cooler rooms

With any climate change, the key is to keep checking your soil regularly. Don’t assume your watering needs will stay the same year-round.

Troubleshooting Philodendron Watering Problems

Even with good care, philodendrons sometimes show signs of watering problems. Here’s how to identify and fix common issues:

Problem: Yellowing lower leaves Likely Cause: Overwatering Solution: Allow soil to dry more between waterings; check for drainage problems

Problem: Dry, crispy leaf edges Likely Cause: Underwatering or low humidity Solution: Water more frequently; consider increasing humidity

Problem: Brown spots with yellow halos Likely Cause: Overwatering leading to fungal infection Solution: Reduce watering; improve air circulation; remove affected leaves

Problem: Wilting despite moist soil Likely Cause: Root rot from overwatering Solution: Check roots; repot in fresh soil if roots are brown and mushy

Problem: Water runs straight through without soaking soil Likely Cause: Soil has become hydrophobic (water-repelling) Solution: Use bottom watering method; consider repotting with fresh soil

With patience and attention, most philodendron watering problems can be corrected. These plants are generally forgiving and will recover when given proper care.

When to Consider Repotting Due to Watering Issues

Sometimes watering problems mean it’s time for new soil or a new pot:

Consider repotting your philodendron if:

Soil dries out too quickly (within 1-2 days after thorough watering)
Soil stays wet for more than a week after watering
Water runs straight through without being absorbed
Plant is very root-bound (roots circling around the outside of the soil)
White mineral deposits have built up on soil or pot edges

The best time to repot is during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Use fresh, well-draining potting mix formulated for indoor plants. A pot just 1-2 inches larger than the current one is usually ideal.

Professional Tips for Perfect Philodendron Watering

Plant experts have developed some clever approaches to watering philodendrons perfectly:

Weight test: Lift your pot after watering and again when it feels dry. You’ll learn to feel the difference between a watered and dry plant by weight alone.

Clear pots: Some growers use clear inner pots so they can see moisture levels and root health.

Moisture meters: These affordable tools give more precise readings than the finger test, especially for large or deep pots.

Water wicking: For consistent moisture, some growers place a wick through the drainage hole into a water reservoir below.

Terracotta reservoirs: Special terracotta spikes can be filled with water to slowly release moisture into the soil.

Try different methods to find what works best for your plants and your lifestyle. The perfect watering routine is one that keeps your plants healthy and fits into your schedule.

Conclusion

Watering your philodendron doesn’t have to be complicated. The most important things to remember are:

Check the soil with your finger – water when the top inch feels dry
Water thoroughly until it flows from the drainage holes
Empty drainage saucers so plants don’t sit in water
Adjust watering frequency based on seasons and home conditions
Watch your plant for signs that it needs more or less water

Every plant and every home is different, so it may take some time to find the perfect watering routine for your philodendron. Be patient with yourself and your plant as you learn together.

With the right watering habits, your philodendron can grow into a lush, beautiful plant that brings life to your home for many years. The effort you put into proper watering will be rewarded with healthy growth and stunning foliage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Watering Philodendrons

How do I know if my philodendron needs water?

The best way to tell if your philodendron needs water is to check the soil with your finger. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry at that depth, it’s time to water. If it still feels damp, wait a few more days. You can also look for visual cues like slightly drooping leaves, which suggest the plant is ready for water.

Can I use tap water for my philodendron?

Yes, you can use tap water for your philodendron, but it’s best to let it sit out overnight first. This allows chlorine to evaporate and brings the water to room temperature. If your tap water is very hard (high in minerals), you might notice white crust forming on your soil over time. In that case, consider using filtered water, rainwater, or distilled water for better results.

How often should I water my philodendron in winter?

Most philodendrons need much less water in winter. While you might water every 7-10 days in summer, in winter you might only need to water every 2-3 weeks. Always check the soil first rather than watering on a schedule. In winter, the plant grows more slowly and uses less water, so the soil stays wet longer. Overwatering in winter is a common cause of root rot.

Why are the leaves on my philodendron turning yellow?

Yellow leaves on a philodendron often indicate overwatering, especially if multiple leaves are turning yellow at once. Other causes can include normal aging (a few bottom leaves), too much direct sunlight, or nutrient issues. Check the soil moisture first – if it feels very wet and the pot feels heavy, hold off on watering until the top inch of soil dries out completely.

Is it better to underwater or overwater a philodendron?

If you have to choose, it’s generally better to underwater than overwater a philodendron. These plants can recover quickly from drought, but root rot from overwatering can kill a plant. An underwatered philodendron will show signs like drooping or crispy leaf edges, letting you know it needs water. An overwatered plant might not show symptoms until root damage has already occurred. When in doubt, wait another day before watering.