How To Grow A Philodendron Lickety Split In Water

January 22, 2023 Cafe Planta Team

Have you ever admired a Philodendron Lickety Split's distinctive leaves and thought, "I need this in my home"? This plant is a showstopper with its deeply lobed, glossy green leaves that seem to be on a mission to catch everyone's attention. While it's commonly grown in soil, today we're exploring how to nurture this beauty in water—a method that can be a fun twist on traditional plant care.

In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about growing a Philodendron Lickety Split in water. We'll cover the basics of setting up, maintaining, and troubleshooting, so you can enjoy the journey with confidence. Let's get started on this green adventure!

Why Grow a Philodendron Lickety Split in Water?

You might be wondering why anyone would choose to grow a plant in water instead of soil. Well, there are a few good reasons. For starters, growing in water can be cleaner and less messy—no more worrying about soil spills on your carpet. Plus, it's an excellent way to keep an eye on root health since you can see them grow and ensure they're nice and healthy.

Additionally, growing in water can reduce the risk of soil-borne pests, which can be a big relief for plant parents tired of dealing with gnats or other unwelcome critters. Lastly, it offers a modern, minimalist aesthetic that can really complement contemporary home decor. Imagine a sleek glass vase with lush green leaves—it's like living art!

Choosing the Right Container

Before you start, you'll need to pick the perfect container. This is where you can let your creativity shine. Almost any waterproof container will do, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Make sure it's big enough to allow the roots to spread out comfortably, but not so large that you lose sight of them.

Material: Clear glass is popular because it lets you see the roots and water level, but ceramic or plastic can work too.
Shape: A vase or jar with a wide mouth is ideal for easy plant insertion and removal.
Size: Choose a container that matches the size of your plant. Too small, and it will be cramped; too large, and it might look odd.

Remember, the container is part of the decor, so choose something that complements your style. Whether it's a vintage mason jar or a sleek modern vase, the choice is yours!

Taking a Cutting

To start your water-growing adventure, you need a cutting from a healthy Philodendron Lickety Split. Look for a stem that's at least six inches long and has a few leaves. You want a cutting that looks vibrant and fresh, not one that's droopy or yellowing.

Here's how to take a cutting:

Sanitize your tools: Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to avoid introducing bacteria.
Choose the right spot: Cut just below a node, the spot where a leaf attaches to the stem. This is where new roots will emerge.
Remove lower leaves: Trim off any leaves that would be submerged in water to prevent rot.

Once you have your cutting, you're ready to move on to the next step: getting it settled in water.

Setting Up Your Water-Based Home

Now that you have your cutting, it's time to set it up in its new water home. Fill your chosen container with enough water to cover the nodes but keep the leaves above the waterline to prevent rot.

Here are some tips to get it right:

Water quality: Use distilled or filtered water to avoid chemicals like chlorine, which can harm your plant.
Water level: Change the water every two weeks or when it becomes cloudy to keep it fresh.
Light: Place the container in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can heat the water and damage the plant.

Once your cutting is settled, all you need to do is wait and watch those roots start to grow!

Monitoring Growth and Health

Observing your Philodendron Lickety Split grow in water is a fascinating process. You might find yourself sneaking a peek every day to catch any new developments. As the roots grow, they should appear white and healthy, with no signs of rot or discoloration.

If you notice any issues, such as browning leaves or mushy roots, it may be time to troubleshoot:

Brown roots: This could indicate rot, so trim away the affected areas and replace the water.
Yellowing leaves: This might be due to overexposure to sunlight or poor water quality. Adjust lighting or switch to distilled water.

With a bit of attention, your plant should thrive and continue to beautify your space.

Fertilizing Your Water-Grown Plant

Even though your Philodendron Lickety Split is happily growing in water, it still needs nutrients to thrive. Liquid fertilizers are your best friend here, and they can be added directly to the water.

Here's how to do it:

Choose the right fertilizer: Look for a balanced liquid fertilizer that's safe for houseplants.
Dilute properly: Follow the instructions, but generally, you'll want to use a weaker solution than you would for soil plants to avoid burning the roots.
Frequency: Fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring and summer), and skip fertilizing in the winter.

Fertilizing will give your plant a boost, helping it to grow strong and healthy in its watery environment.

Dealing with Common Issues

Like any plant, a Philodendron Lickety Split grown in water may encounter a few hiccups along the way. But don't worry—most issues are easily fixed with a little care and attention.

Here are some common problems and solutions:

Algae growth: If your container is clear, algae might start to grow. Rinse the container and change the water regularly to keep it at bay.
Root rot: Trim away any affected roots and change the water. Make sure you're not submerging too much of the plant.
Pests: While less common in water, pests like aphids can still appear. Gently wash the leaves with soapy water and rinse thoroughly.

Keeping an eye on your plant and maintaining a regular care routine will help prevent these issues from becoming serious problems.

Incorporating Philodendron Lickety Split into Your Decor

Now that your Philodendron Lickety Split is thriving in its aquatic home, it's time to think about how to incorporate it into your living space. The beauty of this plant is its versatility—it can fit into almost any decor style.

Consider these ideas:

Modern minimalist: Use a clear glass vase for a clean look that highlights the plant's natural beauty.
Bohemian: Pair it with woven baskets or macramé hangers for a relaxed, earthy vibe.
Eclectic: Mix and match with other plants and decor items to create a dynamic, lively space.

Wherever you place it, this plant is sure to add a touch of elegance and life to your home.

Long-Term Care and Transitioning

As time goes by, your Philodendron Lickety Split may outgrow its container or you might decide to transition it back to soil. Both scenarios are perfectly normal and easy to manage.

For transitioning to soil:

Choose the right pot: Pick one with good drainage and fill it with a well-draining potting mix.
Gently transfer: Plant the cutting in soil, making sure the roots are spread out and covered.
Water and care: Water thoroughly and place in indirect light, adjusting your care routine as needed.

Whether you keep it in water or move it to soil, your Philodendron Lickety Split is sure to continue delighting you with its lush growth and striking appearance.

Final Thoughts

Growing a Philodendron Lickety Split in water is a rewarding way to enjoy its beauty and unique charm. With the right setup and care, you'll watch this plant thrive and become a centerpiece in your home.

At Cafe Planta, we're passionate about helping you enjoy your plant journey. If you have questions or need plant care advice, feel free to email us or message us on Instagram. We love sharing our plant passion and helping you create a beautiful, thriving home. Happy planting!

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