Neon Philodendron Care Guide

Today, I will guide you through the characteristics of another gorgeous philodendron: Neon Philodendron.

The philodendron plants are popular as ornamental and indoor plants. We have had the chance to explain how to take care of a Philodendron Birkin in a previous article.

Commonly named Philodendron Hederaceum Lemon Lime, this houseplant has heart-shaped leaves with bright neon green leaves.

Aside from its fluorescent colors, Neon Philodendron may charm you with its climbing nature. Some of us love an epiphytic plant as a home decoration (Just like Pilea Depressa). What could we say, right?

Plus, What I love more about the Neon is that it is an evergreen plant. So, it retains its vivid colors throughout the year.

Just look at those amazing bright leaves. Just put this plant in your living room, and it will brighten it instantly.

I bet this photo is enough to convince you to read more and learn how to care for the Neon Philodendron.

Let’s not waste time then! Here is what you should know.

Light requirements

The Neon Philodendron will thrive under a bright indirect light. So, you will have to look for the window that gets the most light in your home and just put it a few feet away from it.

You can also put it on a west-facing windowsill. Beware of direct sunlight because it will burn your philodendron’s leaves.

I love the look of this plant indoors, but you might want to put it outside. In that case, look for a spot with a bright shade.

You can also place it somewhere with morning sunlight. Either way, remember to avoid direct sunlight that could harm its leaves.

An alternative solution would be LED grow lights.

Watering needs

Just like other Philodendrons, this one loves water too. However, overwatering may be an issue if you don’t pay attention.

When overwatered, its leaves will turn yellow with a droopy look. So, it is best to adjust your watering pattern to the state of your plant.

A good rule of thumb is to wait until the top half of the soil is dry before watering.

My advice is to drench the soil until water starts exiting through the drainage hole.

In addition, temperature and humidity levels will impact your plant’s water needs. It means that you will have to water it more during summer than winter.

I will never cease to repeat this: When in doubt, it is always better to err on the underwatering side.

Soil characteristics

The Neon Philodendron isn’t quite picky when it comes to its soil needs.

Therefore, you can go with pretty much any standard houseplant potting mix. Still, good drainage is a must to avoid root rot.

What I usually do is add a handful of perlite for aeration and coco coir for water retention.

You can also skip on fertilizing or save it until the growing seasons (spring and summer).

Here is our pick for a good organic fertilizer.

Potting advice

I almost always go for plastic pots with drainage holes.

These have the advantage of not heating up and, therefore, allowing for good water retention.

In addition, they won’t break, which is a huge plus. Most plant growers will know the hell that is repotting a plant that lost its pot. Plastic pots will save you the trouble.

Furthermore, drainage holes are essential to avoid root rot.

Here is a full article on how to choose a pot.

Temperature & Humidity levels

The Neon Philodendron will do fine in temperatures between 59°F (15°C) and 80°F (25°C).

Due to being native to tropical South America, it is sensitive to low temperatures. Therefore, avoid any cold draft when indoors.

If you place it outside, it is best to put it inside your home during cold winter days.

Moreover, when it comes to humidity, you won’t have to do much. It will nicely grow in average household humidity levels. However, it won’t do any harm to mist it from time to time.

Toxicity

Philodendrons are known to contain calcium oxalate crystals which can be toxic to pets and humans when ingested.

So, keep your pets and children away from chewing on the leaves.

It will cause a burning sensation in the stomach, vomiting, and nausea.

If you face such a situation, you should call your vet or doctor.

Propagation

Propagating this plant should be easy enough for any beginner. The steps are clear and simple. It usually takes up to three months for propagation to succeed. Here is how you should go about it:

1. Cut a piece of stem between two nodes. It is better to use sterilized pruning shears. I would advise you to cut a piece of stem that is at least 4 inches long.
2. Remove any leaves at the bottom of the cutting.
3. Put the stem cutting in a cup of distilled water. Preferably a glass cup so you can see through it. 
4. Place it on a west-facing windowsill.
5. Change the water every two days or so. Keep it clear and clean.
6. After about ten days, you’ll notice roots developing.
7. Once the roots are about one inch tall, place the cutting in damp soil.
8. After about three weeks, you should notice a new stem developing.

There is nothing complicated in water propagation. If you follow these steps, you should be able to successfully propagate your philodendron.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Neon Philodendron is pretty easy to grow. It serves best as an indoor ornamental plant. You can put it in hanging baskets for a beautiful decoration.

Just avoid overwatering and direct sunlight, and you’ll have no problems growing this vining beauty.