I recently got this plant from my grandmother. She doesnt know what kind of plant it is but she has kept it going for 24 years. I have done what she says but I cant keep it thriving. Please help. What plant is it, Why is it dying and what can I do to save it? It would break both of our hearts if I kill it. Thanks
agree with the id. the soil medium should be very well draining, yet hold a bit of moisture. i use a mix of orchid bark, potting soil and perlite for all my philodendron. container should have drainage holes in the bottom. water very well - until you see the water coming out the drain holes. any excess water that collects in drip pan/dish should be discarded after 1/2 hour (that gives time for all the excess to work it's way out of the container. allow the soil to dry out slightly and then water again. that's probably an 8 or 10 inch container - watering every 4-5 days should be good enough. these plants do best when in indirect bright light. i keep mine off to the side of the window and they have an eastern exposure with a little southern exposure for a couple hours before the house next door blocks the sunlight. too much water and improper drainage will lead to root rot. too little water and it'll droop and eventually die if it's given too little water for too long a time. it may need repotting if that hasn't been done in for 2-3 years. unpot it and look at the roots; remove any that are black/brown and/or mushy. pot up in fresh soil medium and a larger pot if it's needed (there should be at least an inch of space between the root ball and the sides of the container. it should not be allowed to get too chilled - anything under 55 and it won't do too well.
