Tropical Philodendron and Monstera

Philodendron are a group of tropical plants that are prized possessions that are somewhat rare. Members of the Aroid family, there are over 100 unique species in the group with new varieties still being discovered in remote jungles even today.
One unique feature of many of this group of aroids is that philodendron and monstera a similar related species can be propagated with cuttings that reestablish their own root systems.

Philodendron and monstera are often identified incorrectly, being mistaken for the other even on professional well known floral retail web-sites, publications, etc. A good identification and reference web-site can be found at www.aroid.org.

Propagation
Vining philodendron and monstera can both be propagated via cuttings that include some foliage or leaves and at least 2 nodes that contain the starters of roots. Place these in water and in some indirect or shaded light and over a few weeks they will begin to send out new roots. An addition of some commercially available rooting powder or gel will speed up the process as well as adding some organic matter such as leaves or a little soil to the mixture. For non vining varieties, seeds that result from blooms or pups that the plant sends up from roots are also a resource of new plants.

Growing environment
Originating in tropical jungle climates throughout the world, these plants will burn if exposed to direct sunshine. The most optimal environment is a cool 70's degrees f and indirect but bright sunlight. Air circulation is also important and helps strengthen plants immunity to pests and disease.

Feeding and watering
Once or twice a year application of time release fertilizer, such as osmacote, will produce a lush plant. Attention to watering will do much in assuring a healthy thriving plant when it comes to these tropicals. While it would seem that they might like to sit in water since they can be propagated in water, this is completely incorrect. After planting in soil or organic growing material, watering should only be done when the plant has completely dried out and should not ever be allowed to sit in standing water as this will start a rotting process and kill the plant. Water should be drained through the pot and also water the leaves and stems.