Your friends have recently recommended you get philodendrons for your house. So, it makes you wonder why do philodendrons make excellent houseplants anyway?
Let’s cure your curiosity, shall we? This article will discuss philodendrons and why they’re even worth the buzz.
About Philodendrons
Philodendrons usually have dark green, oval-shaped leaves. These plants originated in the tropical regions of South and Central America.
There’s an estimate of 490 species discovered that belong to the philodendron genus.
Types of Philodendrons
There are two known types of the philodendron plant—the climbing and the upright types. It helps to know which one you’d be more comfortable with so you’d know which one to grow.
Climbing Type
Climbing philodendrons usually have heart-shaped leaves that have a dark green color. They’re known to grow and climb vertical surfaces like windows and walls.
Upright Type
The upright type of philodendrons typically has larger green leaves. They’re usually planted in a pot and take less space compared to the climbing type.
Why Are Philodendrons Great Houseplants
Now that you’ve learned basic information about philodendrons, it’s time to touch on some interesting facts about them. Here are four reasons why philodendrons make excellent houseplants:
1 – They Are Low-Maintenance
Unlike many houseplants, philodendrons are actually undemanding in nature. They require minimal work, which makes them the perfect plants for beginners.
Light
The philodendron plant can grow in various light conditions. They can even survive in low-light environments.
But if you want your plant to grow healthier, philodendrons thrive in bright indirect light. Be careful not to place them in direct sunlight, though, as this may burn their leaves.
Water
This plant doesn’t actually need regular watering. In fact, too much water can harm it.
A philodendron’s roots may rot if it sits in soggy soil for a while. So, it’s best to only water your plant when its topsoil is dried out.
Temperature and Humidity
Philodendrons flourish in warm and humid conditions. They grow well in room temperatures between 65ºF–78ºF, which is what humans are comfortable with, too.
These plants also prefer high humidity levels. Therefore, if your home is usually dry, you can mist your philodendron from time to time, or you can use a humidifier.
2 – Improve Air Quality
Dr. Bill Wolverton, a NASA scientist, conducted a study in 1984 on houseplants and their impact on the air quality around them. His research proved that the philodendron plant, along with many other houseplants, is able to successfully purify the air.
Our homes might be filled with seemingly harmless materials. But little do we know that most of them are actually sources of volatile organic compounds or VOCs.
Some examples of VOCs that are usually present in a household are benzene, ethylene glycol, and formaldehyde. These typically come from house paint, cosmetics, cleaning supplies, upholstery, and carpets, among many others.
3 – Increase Humidity
According to Mayo Clinic, low humidity levels at home can cause several health problems like skin dryness, throat and nasal passages irritation, and itchy eyes.
Houseplants like philodendrons can increase the humidity in your home through transpiration. Transpiration is when plants release water vapors into the air.
The higher the transpiration rate of a plant, the more it can help increase the humidity in your home.
4 – Reduce Stress
Living in this fast-paced world, it’s inevitable that we experience pressures in our waking life. These pressures may give us high levels of stress and negatively affect our well-being.
WebMD reports numerous studies showing that indoor plants like philodendrons may help relieve stress. Touching, seeing, smelling, and just being around plants can improve your mental health.
Even touching the soil can benefit you! Soil actually has a natural antidepressant in it called Mycobacterium vaccae.
This bacterium causes cytokine levels to rise, resulting in more production of serotonin in our system. So, if you’ve finally had enough of dealing with stress, just start by growing philodendrons in your home.
Final Thoughts
Philodendrons aren’t only easy to take care of. But the benefits you get from growing them are a major help for your health, too!
So we ask you now; why do philodendrons make excellent houseplants? Better grab your gardening tools and experience the answer yourself.
Growing up with a mom who filled her home (inside and out) with all sorts of plants, Lisa got her start in gardening at a young age. Living now on her own with a home and yard full of plants (including an indoor greenhouse), she shares all the gardening tips she’s gained over the years.