Featured Plant:

Philodendron McDowell

In this blog post, I would like to share my found knowledge of what I found useful in improving my plant care through out the years, found experience and plant experiments/research hoping to help others along the way of their plant experience.
As we all share the love of plants we all carry plant care differently and should mold it to their own experience and care.

Origin

It is a cross between Philodendron gloriosum and Philodendron pastazanum, created by John Banta in 1988 and named after his friend Dean McDowell.

Aroid

Tips

Wipe down foliage especially if you have an aroid that exudes EFNs constantly, it may also cause cosmetic damage if left on the foliage if the foliage is a thinner leaf variety.

Care:

Temp: average 60-75F
Light Bright indirect light
Watering Light medium waterings ( I usually bottom water when I am unsure)
Feeding I use Superthrive which is a blend of vitamins and help that support the plant’s growth
Fertilizing

Key considerations for picking Fertilizers

Soil Type
For optimal plant growth, choose soil type carefully: Sandy soil is well-drained but low in nutrients, while clay soil retains moisture but is harder to manage.
Nutrient Content
Ensure fertilizers have the correct balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for your plants.
Organic vs Synthetic Fertilizers
Consider your garden's needs when choosing between organic and synthetic fertilizers. Organic options release nutrients slowly over time, while synthetic fertilizers provide quick results but can be harmful if overused.

Substrates

Aroids flourish in organically rich, well-drained soil. Blend materials such as coco peat, tree bark, pumice, and compost to create an ideal substrate. Enhance the mix with orchid bark, coco coir, perlite, and horticultural charcoal to replicate the optimal growth conditions in a rainforest environment. It is essential to promote healthy root development by ensuring adequate aeration using a coarse, well-draining mixture.

Pests

Aroids can face a few common pest issues. Here are some to watch out for:

Scale Bugs and Mealybugs: These pests are known to infest aroids. Deal with them promptly by applying weekly sprays of horticultural (Neem) oil and regularly wiping down the plant.

Spider Mites, Thrips, and Aphids: These small pests can be a nuisance to your aroids, particularly Pothos plants. They often hide beneath leaves, feeding on sap, which leads to leaf discoloration and damage.

Root Rot: Aroids can develop root rot if they are left in standing water for an extended period. To prevent this, maintain appropriate soil moisture levels and opt for well-draining soil when planting these species.

Don't forget to watch out for these pests and proactively protect your aroids to maintain their health!

Pest Control

What I have found useful are Sulfur and Dr Jack DeadBug Brew those two have a lot of help in reaching most of all pests and for thrips, I recommend Doctor Doom Thrip Killer which will do the trick and with all pest treatments I recommend using a mask and gloves especially if you have sensitive skin.

Sulfur
Sulphur is great it can treat gnats as well and keep them away but also placing it in an area where you have good bugs they will also eliminate them so be cautious when using around good bugs.
Dr. Jacks

Plant Care Tuesday: Aroid Pest Control