How to prune back split-leaf philodendron

Discussion in 'Araceae' started by paw, Jan 11, 2010.

  1. paw

    paw Member

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    Location:
    houston
    I have serveral of these same plants that live outside of my home in Houston.
    If you have followed the weather down here we are having record low
    temperatures this week.
    We covered them with sheets and want to know
    **How do we prune them back after the freeze is over?***
    They are very, very leggy.
    Thanks
     
  2. photopro

    photopro Well-Known Member

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    Location:
    Siloam Springs, AR, USA
    Re: split leaf philodendron

    All the leaves and petioles should be cut directly at the stem. Coat the cut with cinnamon to help prevent fungal infection. The stem is the part of the plant most growers call the "trunk". In time the plant is likely to recover provided it was not subjected to an extended freeze.

    http://www.exoticrainforest.com/What is a stem. What is a petiole.html
     
  3. paw

    paw Member

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    Location:
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    Re: split leaf philodendron

    Thanks so much. WIll Do. It's been 15-20 degrees for 4 days!!!! Ouch!
     
  4. photopro

    photopro Well-Known Member

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    Location:
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    That is below the temp and duration this plant is likely to survive but if you cut all the petioles right away and treat them to prevent fungal infection you may have a chance of saving it. I've heard of a plants that have lived through such lows. If the stem begins to look as if it is about to die you'd be wise to cut the viable stem near the soil and hope for the best.
     

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