Philodendron warscewiczii - Care

Caring for Philodendron warscewiczii in coco coir with Growth Technologies Foliage Focus involves a tailored method that leverages the medium's qualities alongside the plant's natural needs. This detailed guide aims to help you establish ideal conditions for this vibrant, golden-leaved tropical plant.

Light Requirements

Philodendron warscewiczii flourishes in bright indirect light. Direct sunlight may scorch its delicate golden leaves, turning them red or brown. While it can tolerate medium indirect light, this may slow its growth and diminish some of its vibrant hues. For optimal variegation and golden colour retention, ensure the plant receives steady bright indirect light all day.

Position your plant near an east or west-facing window, or place it away from a south-facing window where it can receive filtered light. Direct sunlight can easily bleach or burn the vibrant yellow-green leaves.

Watering Schedule with Coco Coir

Coco coir needs a different watering method compared to traditional soil. It should stay consistently moist and never dry out completely. The surface should never look dry or turn light brown.

Watering Frequency:

• Water every 1-2 days during active growth periods
• Regular watering may be necessary as plants mature
• Check the growing medium regularly by lifting the container - if it feels light, it's time to water
• Maintaining good watering during our (winter) dry season will reduce dormancy

Watering Technique:

• Water thoroughly until you see 10-20% runoff from the drainage holes
• Always remove excess runoff water to prevent root problems
• Never allow the plant to sit in standing water

Monitoring Moisture:

The coco coir should feel slightly moist when squeezed by hand - it should release a little moisture that quickly vanishes through your fingers, but not stream water immediately.

Growth Technologies Foliage Focus Application

Growth Technologies Foliage Focus is an ideal complete nutrient solution for Philodendron warscewiczii, containing all 12 essential minerals, including calcium, which is vital for healthy leaf development.

Mixing Ratios:

• For coco coir: 5-7ml per litre of water
• For mature plants: 5ml per litre
• For young or slow-growing plants: 3ml per litre

Application Schedule:

• Fertilise with every watering:  this is critical in coco coir as the medium provides no nutrients
• Monthly flush: Once per month, flush with plain water to prevent mineral salt buildup

pH Management:

Growth Technology's Foliage Focus is pH-buffered, requiring minimal pH adjustment when using most tap water. The ideal pH range for coco coir is 5.8-6.2, and Foliage Focus naturally falls within this range.

Environmental Conditions

Temperature:

Keep temperatures between 15-32°C. The plant is sensitive to temperatures below 10°C and should be shielded from temperature fluctuations.

Humidity:

Maintain humidity between 50-70% for optimal growth. A minimum of 60% humidity during the day is recommended. You can increase humidity through:

• Regular misting (mornings only, allowing leaves to dry during the day)
• Humidity trays with pebbles
• Humidifiers

Air Circulation:

Ensure good airflow around the plant, but keep it away from direct drafts from air conditioning or heating vents.

Soil Mix Composition for Coco Coir Growing

When growing in coco coir, create a well-draining, chunky mix :

Recommended Mix:

• 60% Coco coir piths as the base medium
• 40% Coco Coir chips for drainage and aeration

This combination provides the chunky texture that Philodendrons prefer while maintaining the moisture-retention properties of coco coir.

Repotting Schedule

Repot every 18-24 months or when you notice:

• Roots growing through drainage holes
• Medium drying out faster than usual
• Slowed growth despite proper care
• The plant is becoming top-heavy

Best timing: Spring or early summer when the plant enters its active growth phase.

Fertiliser Adjustments by Season

Growing Season (Spring-Summer):

• Use the full 5-7ml per litre dosage
• Feed with every watering
• Monitor for rapid growth and adjust feeding frequency if needed

Winter/Dormant Period:

• Maintaining good watering during our dry season will reduce dormancy
• Reduce to 3ml per litre for slow-growing periods
• Continue feeding with every watering, but expect less frequent watering overall
• Never skip fertiliser entirely in coco coir

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Yellowing Leaves:

• Often indicates overwatering or nutrient imbalance
• Check drainage and ensure proper runoff
• Verify fertiliser concentration and pH levels

Leaf Burn/Brown Tips:

• Usually caused by direct sunlight or nutrient burn
• Move to bright indirect light
• Reduce fertiliser concentration temporarily

Slow Growth:

• Increase light exposure (while maintaining indirect lighting)
• Check humidity levels - may need to increase
• Ensure consistent feeding with Foliage Focus

Key Success Factors

1. Never let the coco coir dry completely - maintain consistent moisture
2. Feed with every single watering - coco coir provides no nutrients
3. Ensure 10-20% runoff with each watering to prevent salt buildup
4. Maintain 50-70% humidity for optimal leaf development
5. Provide bright indirect light to maintain golden colouration
6. Use a chunky, well-draining coco coir mix for healthy root development

By following these guidelines, your Philodendron warscewiczii should thrive in coco coir with Growth Technologies Foliage Focus, producing the characteristic foliage that makes this philodendron so prized among collectors.

Read more about Coco coir in the Araceae Magazine Autumn 2025 Edition.