Philodendron Dodsonii is a native to Ecuador, Colombia, Costa Rica, and Panama. It’s a part of the vast Philodendron genus
This Philodendron has lush foliage with stunning dark green color and is grown in hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Table of Contents
Philodendron Dodsonii Care
Philodendron Dodsonii needs to be provided with well-draining soil that has a pH level of 5.5 to 6.9. This plant should be kept under bright and indirect sunlight. The temperatures around your Philodendron Dodsonii must remain a temperature between 60ᵒF to 85ᵒF (16ᵒC – 29ᵒC). Humidity should be in the 70-80% range for ideal conditions.
Soil
Philodendron Dodsonii needs to be provided with soil that is well-draining and contains organic matter within it. The soil should always remain moist, and you should never let it become dry.
This is because Philodendron Dodsonii comes from tropical rainforests and is used to inhibit moist soil.
You can use soil that has peat moss and perlite mixed in it and some organic materials. Maintain the soil’s pH between 5.5 (slightly acidic) to 6.9 (neutral).
Water
Philodendron Dodsonii likes to remain in moist soil. Overly soggy soil is also not good for Philodendron Dodsonii as the leaves can start to turn yellow.
Thus, it’s vital that you find the perfect ratio. During summers, water your Philodendron Dodsonii thrice weekly.
Ensure that the soil’s at least 90% dry before watering your Philodendron Dodsonii again.
When winter comes, reduce the watering to only once weekly. Over-watering your Philodendron Dodsonii can cause its roots to rot.
Light
Philodendron Dodsonii can survive under direct sunlight if the rays are not too intense. However, it is best to keep them under bright, indirect sunlight.
You can achieve this by keeping your Philodendron Dodsonii next to a south-facing window.
Ensure your Philodendron Dodsonii gets sufficient sunlight as lack of it will make the stems and leaves elongate.
If the leaves get damaged in any way, your Philodendron Dodsonii will become an easy target for diseases and will not produce blooms either.
Too much sunlight will cause your Philodendron Dodsoniis leaves to burn, turning the color of the leaves yellow or slightly red.
Temperature
Philodendron Dodsonii must be kept in temperatures ranging from 60ᵒF to 85ᵒF (16ᵒC – 29ᵒC). Cold temperatures will cause the leaves on your Philodendron Dodsonii to become droopy, or they might get damaged as well.
It is recommended that you move your Philodendron Dodsonii indoors once winter begins, as this will help your plant avoid frost or cold weather.
Humidity
Philodendron Dodsonii needs to be kept in humidity levels ranging from 70 to 80 percent.
This is because Philodendron Dodsonii thrives in high humidity levels as it is a native of tropical rainforests.
When providing your Philodendron Dodsonii with humidity, make sure the surroundings are warm and damp. They should not be cold.
A cold and damp environment can cause your Philodendron Dodsonii to have excess amounts of moisture around it.
This will cause diseases and funguses to be attracted to your Philodendron Dodsonii.
In summer, there might be a lack of moisture in the air, and thus, achieving higher levels of humidity may become harder.
In order to increase the surrounding humidity levels, you will have to mist your Philodendron Dodsonii. You can also buy a humidifier or place a water tray filled with pebbles underneath your Philodendron Dodsonii.
Water levels within the pebble tray should not lower because there will be no humidity in the air if no water is available.
Fertilizer
Philodendron Dodsonii needs to be fertilized a lot more than other plants. This is a big part of its care as a lack of nutrients will cause its growth to slow down.
Lack of fertilization of your Philodendron Dodsonii plant will cause it to become unhealthy and underdeveloped.
Any houseplant fertilizer is suitable for Philodendron Dodsonii; just make sure you use it according to the instructions given on the packet.
Philodendron Dodsonii needs to be fertilized every single month during its growing season.
Do not fertilize your plant every month during winter and fall. Fertilize it only once every three months during the fall and winter seasons.
If you use a slow-releasing fertilizer, then use it three times per year.
Repotting
Philodendron Dodsonii does not like to be rootbound. Thus, if you notice that your Philodendron Dodsonii has become rootbound, you must shift it into a bigger pot.
You will know your Philodendron Dodsonii is rootbound when:
- The roots start coming above the soil
- The roots start coming out of the drainage holes, and the water begins to run straight out of the drainage hole
- Your plant starts to look dull and dry
Philodendron Dodsonii growth can start to get stunted when it becomes rootbound.
When you repot your plant, use sanitized equipment and place your plant in a larger pot than the previous one.
Pruning
Philodendron Dodsonii does not need to be pruned too often. If you want to keep the plant clean, you can cut off some leaves and stems.
When pruning your Philodendron Dodsonii, follow these steps:
- Sanitize your equipment before pruning your Philodendron Dodsonii. Clean all the shear and gardening tools with rubbing alcohol.
- Wash your hands to minimize pest and disease spread.
- Pinch back any new growth or cut off the trips of the stem when you see new growth during the spring season. It would be best if you only did this once the tips become three to six inches long.
Propagation
Philodendron Dodsonii should be propagated during the spring seasons as this is the time when this plant is dormant. You can propagate Philodendron Dodsonii in soil or water.
The two ways through which you can propagate your Philodendron Dodsonii include tip and stem cutting.
Before starting anyone of the propagation methods, you will have to sanitize your tools.
This step is necessary as this will reduce the chances of your Philodendron Dodsonii getting infected by diseases and funguses.
Remember to wear gloves and other protective tools yourself as you can get hurt while using sharp equipment.
If you are going to propagate your Philodendron Dodsonii through stem cutting, then cut the stem two to three inches below the node. Do this using sharp shears, gardening scissors, or a sharp knife.
If you propagate using the tip cutting method, cut a small section of the stem of your Philodendron Dodsonii.
This should also be two to three inches long, and make sure that the stem has some leaves on its tips.
Propagation in Water
- In this first step, you will have to take a container and fill it with water. Put the stem cutting in the water and do not fill in the jar till the top. Keep the water at least one inch below the rim.
- If you use tap water, leaving it outside for twenty-four hours is beneficial as the chlorine dissipates.
- Place the stem cutting in the jar and make sure two nodes are under the water. Leave at least two leaves above water.
- Place the jar in a warm and well-lit area until the roots start to grow.
- Change the water regularly after every two to three days.
- Make sure you never leave the jar under direct sunlight. If you don’t properly care for your new Philodendron Dodsonii, then algae will start to grow.
- Once the roots sprout, shift the plant into a pot that is filled with soil. Water it and take care of it like you would take care of a well-grown Philodendron Dodsonii.
Propagation in Soil
- Fill a pot with perlite and peat moss. Other suitable potting mixes can also be used.
- Water the soil and put the cutting into the soil.
- Increase humidity levels surrounding your Philodendron Dodsonii by covering the plant with a plastic bag.
- Keep the soil moist throughout the week. Avoid over-watering and making the soil soggy.
- Keep the temperature levels between 70ᵒF to 75ᵒF (21ᵒC to 23ᵒC).
- You can check if the plant is growing roots by gently pulling your Philodendron Dodsonii up. If you feel some resistance in the pull, then this means that the roots have started to grow, and they are strong.
- You can also dig the cut end of the stem in some rooting hormones to speed up the process of rooting. This part is not necessary, as your Philodendron Dodsonii will root either way.
Blooms
Philodendron Dodsonii does not bloom indoors often and will only bloom once it has reached its mature stage.
People consider Philodendron Dodsonii spathe and spadix as flowers, but this is just a modified leaf blade.
The spathe and spadix are both white in color on Philodendron Dodsonii. The spadix is present right in the middle to support the tiny “flower.” These blooms can be male or female.
Growth
The leaves on Philodendron Dodsonii can grow up to 11cm longer once it has matured.
Overall, this plant can grow to a height of 54cm.
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Common Problems for Philodendron Dodsonii
Pseudomonas Leaf Spot
Pseudomonas leaf spot is a common occurrence in Philodendron plants. Your Philodendron Dodsonii may look distorted or can even have reddish-brown spots on it.
This bacterium tends to stay in the dead parts of your plant.
Pseudomonas bacteria cannot survive in water or soil for too long. This bacterium is weak and needs natural openings within your Philodendron Dodsonii to infect it.
The best way to avoid this bacterium from reaching your plant is by working with sanitized equipment that is sharp.
Xanthomonas Leaf Spot
Xanthomonas campestris is the bacteria behind the Xanthomonas leaf spot.
Xanthomonas campestris is from the Xanthomonas genus. This is a tiny microorganism that can move short distances in water.
Xanthomonas leaf spot can look different in everyone’s plant, but the most common symptoms found in Philodendron plants include the appearance of spots between the veins of the leaves.
The best solution for Xanthomonas leaf spot is using proper equipment that has been sanitized, and clean water should be used when watering your plant.
Tips for Growing Philodendron Dodsonii
Philodendron Dodsonii is grown indoors for its stunning leaves. If given optimum care, they can even bloom indoors.
However, to make them bloom indoors, you will need to follow these tips:
- Keep your Philodendron Dodsonii in temperatures ranging between 60ᵒF to 85ᵒF (16ᵒC – 29ᵒC).
- It would be best if you kept your Philodendron Dodsonii in soil that has a pH ranging from 5.5 (slightly acidic) to 6.9 (neutral).
- Provide your Philodendron Dodsonii with humidity levels between 70-80 percent.
- Keep the soil moist, but never wet.
- Provide your Philodendron Dodsonii with indirect sunlight.
- Do not overwater or over-fertilize your Philodendron Dodsonii.
Frequently Asked Questions about Philodendron Dodsonii
Why is my Philodendron Dodsonii turning yellow and brown?
Misting your plant too often could be causing that. Try not misting for the next two months and use other ways to increase the humidity levels.
Can I use tap water to water my Philodendron Dodsonii?
You can use tap water for your Philodendron Dodsonii. However, let it stay out for at least 24 hours before watering your plant with it.
Can my Philodendron Dodsonii grow in low lighting?
Fortunately, Philodendron Dodsonii is capable of surviving under low light conditions. However, they will grow slower under low lighting.
How long will it take for my Philodendron Dodsonii cuttings to grow?
It can take two weeks for your Philodendron Dodsonii to begin growing roots and three weeks to begin sprouting new leaves.
Conclusion
Philodendron Dodsonii is a cute small plant that you can keep on your study or office desk. They do not take up much space, especially if you prune off the excess growth.
This plant can liven up your workspace and get you ready to start your day with the freshness it brings to your desk.
Daniel has been a plant enthusiast for over 20 years. He owns hundreds of houseplants and prepares for the chili growing seasons yearly with great anticipation. His favorite plants are plant species in the Araceae family, such as Monstera, Philodendron, and Anthurium. He also loves gardening and is growing hot peppers, tomatoes, and many more vegetables.