Philodendron Burle Marx 8” basket

Philodendron Burle Marx

1. Light Requirements:

• Bright, Indirect Light: The Burle Marx thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. However, variegated plants need more light than their non-variegated counterparts to maintain the bright colors in their leaves.
• Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.

2. Watering:

• Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the soil has good drainage.
• Make sure the pot has drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.
• Reduce watering during the winter when the plant is in its dormant phase.

3. Humidity:

• High humidity (60% or more) is ideal for the Burle Marx. If your home is dry, especially in winter, consider using a humidifier or placing the plant on a humidity tray.
• Regular misting can also help boost humidity, but ensure the plant isn’t sitting in water.

4. Temperature:

• Warm temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C) are ideal.
• Avoid placing it in cold drafts or near air conditioners and heaters.

5. Soil:

• Use a well-draining potting mix. A mix formulated for aroids or houseplants is typically good.
• You can also add perlite or orchid bark to improve drainage.

6. Fertilization:

• Feed the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
• In the fall and winter, you can reduce fertilizing since the plant’s growth slows down.

7. Pruning and Support:

• Prune the plant to maintain its shape and remove any leggy or damaged growth.
• If your Burle Marx becomes too long or trailing, you may want to provide it with a moss pole or trellis to encourage vertical growth.

8. Repotting:

• Repot the plant when it outgrows its container, typically every 1-2 years, or when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes.
• Choose a pot that’s 1-2 inches larger than the current one.

9. Pests:

• Watch out for common houseplant pests like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Treat infestations early using insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Additional Tips:

• Variegated plants like the Burle Marx may lose some of their variegation in lower light or under stress. Bright indirect light will help maintain its beautiful patterns.
• Be mindful not to let the plant sit in standing water, as it can lead to root rot.