Philodendron Birkin

Philodendron Birkin Care

One of the biggest selling points of all types of philodendron is their low-maintenance nature⁠⁠—they’re popular beginner houseplants. But that doesn’t mean you can neglect them. The Philodendron Birkin still needs the right levels of warmth, moisture, and bright, indirect light to thrive and show off its impressive variegation. Just avoid being too attentive⁠—overfertilization and overwatering aren’t this plant’s friends.

While they don’t have a climbing habit, a support pole might be helpful for top-heavy plants, and you’ll want to wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks to promote variegation and keep them glossy and healthy.

Light

Most philodendron species appreciate filtered light, and the Birkin is no exception. A west- or east-facing window with medium bright, indirect light usually works well. To maximize the variegation, you don’t want a corner that is too shady, but too much direct sun can scorch the leaves and result in limp, leggy growth. This plant usually appreciates a few hours of light morning sun.

Because the Philodendron Birkin likes to grow toward sunlight, rotating the plant periodically helps promote even growth.

Soil

Philodendrons thrive in potting mixes specially designed for aroid species, or you can try making your own. Blending one part potting soil, one part orchid bark, and one part perlite provides the right amount of acidity, moisture retention, drainage, and aeration⁠—they require good air circulation but don’t tolerate soggy roots.

Water

They might be hard to kill plants, but Philodendron Birkin aren’t impervious to it. One of the biggest problems is overwatering⁠—soggy soil can lead to mushy stems and root rot. Watering thoroughly and allowing the top few inches of soil to dry out before topping up the moisture level works best.

While you don’t want the plant to completely dry out, don’t panic if you forget to water it occasionally. They’re pretty forgiving and usually perk up after a thorough watering. Be sure to drain away any excess water.

Temperature and Humidity

These tropical beauties thrive in warmth and humidity⁠—they’re great houseplants for bathrooms. Temperatures need to stay consistently above 55 degrees Fahrenheit. If the home environment is particularly dry, the Philodendron Birkin won’t be a good choice.

They’ll grow in most homes, though, with ideal temperatures ranging from 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If you can’t provide preferred humidity levels of between 50 and 60 percent, try introducing a humidifier or adding a pebble tray filled with water underneath your plant.

Fertilizer

Regular fertilization isn’t always essential for the Philodendron Birkin, and too much feeding can cause root burn and yellowing leaves. However, feeding with a balanced, weak solution of houseplant fertilizer every couple of months during the growing season promotes faster growth, improved variegation, and glossy foliage, especially in brighter conditions.