When caring for an indoor philodendron plant, aim to mimic its natural tropical environment. Provide plenty of warmth and moisture near a sunny window. Philodendron houseplants also tend to appreciate some time outside during warm weather to get some fresh air and natural light. But be sure to place them in a somewhat shady spot, as direct sunlight can burn them.
Philodendrons typically grow best in partial sunlight. They naturally would get dappled light under a tropical canopy not direct sun. Indoors, set them up by a window that gets bright, indirect light. Too little light can result in leggy growth with lots of space in between the leaves. But too much light can cause many of the leaves to turn yellow at the same time. (Only a few leaves yellowing is typically just normal aging.)
These plants generally like a moderate amount of soil moisture. Water whenever the top inch of soil has dried out. Both overwatering and underwatering can cause the leaves to droop, so gauge when it’s time to water by the soil dryness and not necessarily the leaves. Philodendrons don’t do well sitting in soggy soil, as this can lead to root rot. The non-climbing varieties tend to have a little more drought tolerance than the vining species.
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly on your plant in the spring and summer. Then, reduce feeding to every six to eight weeks in the fall and winter. If your plant isn’t getting enough food, its growth will be slower than normal and its leaves might appear smaller than usual.
Philodendron leaves and stems are high in calcium oxalate. This can be toxic to both people and animals when eaten.