Philodendron 'Calkins Gold' - A Granny's Guide to Care

Meet the Philodendron 'Calkins Gold', a lush, tropical plant that's sure to bring a pop of color and vitality to your indoor space. As a granny who's spent years perfecting the art of plant care, I'm happy to share my secrets with you.

Lighting

Give your Philodendron 'Calkins Gold' a spot with bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch those beautiful leaves, so an east- or west-facing window is perfect. If you're using grow lights, keep them at least 6 inches away from the plant to avoid burning.

Watering

Water your Philodendron 'Calkins Gold' when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Don't overwater, dearie, or you'll end up with root rot! Make sure the pot has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil. Water at room temperature, please - no cold water shocks!

Humidity

This tropical beauty loves a humid environment. To keep your Philodendron 'Calkins Gold' happy, you can place the pot on a tray filled with water and pebbles or use a humidifier nearby. Just be sure not to mist the leaves directly, as this can cause fungal diseases.

Soil

Use a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for tropical plants. Avoid regular garden soil, as it can compact and prevent proper drainage. If you're feeling adventurous, you can mix your own using peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.

Fertilizer

Feed your Philodendron 'Calkins Gold' with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid burning those delicate roots. No fertilizer during the dormant season, please!

Temperature

Keep your Philodendron 'Calkins Gold' in an area with consistent temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid placing it near heating or cooling vents, fireplaces, or drafty windows. This plant doesn't like sudden temperature changes, so keep it cozy and stable.

With these care tips and a little love, your Philodendron 'Calkins Gold' will thrive and become the envy of all your plant-loving friends. Happy planting, dearie!