How To Save A Sunburnt Philodendron Lickety Split

Picture this: you've just placed your Philodendron Lickety Split in the perfect spot where it can soak up the sun. But a few days later, you notice its leaves have turned a worrying shade of brown. Sunburn, you realize, has claimed another victim. Don't worry, though—rescuing your sunburnt Philodendron Lickety Split is possible, and I'm here to guide you through the process.

In this post, we'll cover everything you need to know to bring your plant back to its lush, green glory. From identifying sunburn damage to providing the right care, you'll learn practical tips and tricks to nurse your Philodendron back to health. So, let's get started on this leafy journey!

Understanding Sunburn in Philodendrons

Sunburn in plants? Yes, it's a thing. Just like us, plants can suffer from too much exposure to direct sunlight. Philodendrons, especially those with larger, more delicate leaves like the Lickety Split, are particularly susceptible. But how do you know if your plant is sunburnt?

Firstly, check the leaves. Sunburnt leaves often display brown or crispy patches, usually on the side facing the window or light source. The edges might appear scorched, and the overall leaf surface could be dry and brittle. In some cases, leaves might even curl up as a defense mechanism against the intense light.

It's also important to note that sunburn can stress your plant, making it more vulnerable to pests and diseases. So, addressing the issue as soon as you notice the signs is crucial for your plant's health.

Adjusting Light Conditions

Once you've identified that your Philodendron Lickety Split has sunburn, the first step is to adjust its light conditions. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light, which mimics their natural habitat under the rainforest canopy.

Here's how you can make the switch:

• Move the plant: Relocate your Philodendron to a spot that gets filtered sunlight. A room with north or east-facing windows is usually ideal. If your only option is a south or west-facing window, consider placing your plant a few feet away or using sheer curtains to diffuse the light.
• Rotate regularly: Make a habit of rotating your plant every few weeks to ensure even light distribution. This can prevent one side from getting too much sunlight and potentially burning.
• Monitor the temperature: Keep an eye on the room temperature. Philodendrons prefer a range of 65-75°F (18-24°C). If it gets too hot, especially during the summer, consider moving the plant further from the window or turning on a fan to circulate air.

By adjusting the lighting conditions, you're giving your plant the best chance to recover and thrive.

Hydrating Your Plant Properly

Once you've sorted out the lighting, the next step is to ensure your sunburnt Philodendron is getting proper hydration. Sunburn can dehydrate plants, so it's essential to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Watering Tips

Here are some handy tips for watering a sunburnt Philodendron:

• Check the soil: Stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water. If it's still moist, hold off and check again in a day or two.
• Water thoroughly: When watering, make sure to soak the soil completely, allowing excess water to drain out of the pot. This helps prevent root rot and ensures even moisture distribution.
• Use room temperature water: Cold water can shock the roots, so it's best to use water that's at room temperature.

Remember, consistency is key. Overwatering can be just as harmful as underwatering, so find a balance that keeps your plant happy.

Pruning Damaged Leaves

Now, onto cleaning up those sunburnt leaves. Pruning helps your plant focus energy on new growth and can improve its overall appearance.

Steps to Prune

Follow these simple steps to prune your Philodendron:

• Gather your tools: You'll need a pair of clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Clean them with rubbing alcohol to prevent spreading any potential diseases.
• Identify the damaged leaves: Look for leaves that are more than 50% damaged. These are unlikely to recover and should be removed.
• Cut carefully: Snip the affected leaves close to the stem, but avoid cutting into the stem itself. This can damage the plant and open it up to infection.

Pruning can seem harsh, but it's like giving your plant a fresh start. With the damaged leaves gone, your Philodendron can focus on producing healthy new foliage.

Feeding Your Philodendron

Sunburn can also leave your plant lacking in nutrients. Once you've adjusted light and water conditions, it's time to give your Philodendron a little nutritional boost.

Choosing the Right Fertilizer

Here are some tips for feeding your sunburnt Philodendron:

• Opt for a balanced fertilizer: Look for a water-soluble fertilizer with a balanced NPK ratio (like 10-10-10). This ensures your plant gets a good mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
• Apply sparingly: Use a diluted solution (about half the recommended strength) to avoid burning the roots. Apply every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Watch for signs of nutrient deficiency: Yellowing leaves or stunted growth may indicate your plant needs more nutrients. If you notice these signs, consider increasing the frequency or strength of your fertilizer—just be cautious not to overdo it.

Feeding your plant the right nutrients can help it recover faster and grow strong, vibrant leaves.

Maintaining Humidity Levels

Philodendrons come from tropical environments, so they love a bit of humidity. If your home is on the dry side, especially in winter, it's important to create a more humid environment for your plant.

Humidity-Boosting Tips

Try these simple methods to increase humidity:

• Misting: Lightly mist the leaves with water every few days. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much moisture can lead to fungal issues.
• Use a pebble tray: Place a shallow tray filled with pebbles and water beneath your plant's pot. As the water evaporates, it adds humidity to the air around your Philodendron.
• Invest in a humidifier: If you have multiple tropical plants or live in a particularly dry climate, a humidifier can be a worthwhile investment to keep your plants happy and healthy.

Maintaining the right humidity can make a big difference in your Philodendron's recovery and overall well-being.

Keeping an Eye on Pests

Sunburn can weaken your plant, making it more susceptible to pests like spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs. Regularly inspecting your plant can help you catch any infestations early.

Spotting and Handling Pests

Here's what to look out for and how to deal with potential pests:

• Inspect regularly: Check the undersides of leaves, stems, and soil for signs of pests, such as webbing, sticky residue, or tiny insects.
• Use insecticidal soap: If you find pests, consider using insecticidal soap or neem oil. These natural options are effective and less harmful to your plant.
• Clean thoroughly: Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove any pests and their residue. This also helps keep your plant's leaves clean and healthy.

By staying vigilant, you can prevent pests from causing further stress to your recovering Philodendron.

Patience and Consistency

Finally, remember that plant recovery takes time. While it's tempting to expect immediate results, your Philodendron needs patience and consistent care to bounce back.

Keep following the care tips outlined above, and don't be discouraged if progress seems slow. With time, your Philodendron will reward you with new growth and vibrant leaves. After all, patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to plant care.

Final Thoughts

Reviving a sunburnt Philodendron Lickety Split is all about creating the right environment and giving it the care it needs to recover. By adjusting light, water, and feeding conditions, and keeping an eye on pests, you'll be well on your way to nurturing a healthy, happy plant.

If you're interested in expanding your houseplant collection or need more plant care accessories, Cafe Planta has you covered. We're passionate about plants and would love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out with any questions via email or send us a message on Instagram. Let's grow together and bring the joy of plants into every home!