Philodendrons are gorgeous houseplants with tropical origins that are amazingly simple to care for.
But, how well do these exotic beauties do in the bedroom, away from bright light?
Read on below and discover the truth about how well Philodendrons do in the bedroom!
Is Philodendron Good for Bedroom?
Philodendron is a great houseplant to keep in the bedroom due to its low light and hydration requirements (it is almost unkillable). Further, philodendrons work as dust magnets and air purifiers, which is also nice to have in the bedroom.
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What Are the Benefits of a Philodendron Plant in the Bedroom?
Philodendrons are excellent and beneficial plants to keep on the dresser or nightstand in the bedroom for a ton of reasons.
For beginners; they are easier to care for than other plants, they look great, and they give you a sense of calm.
That said, perhaps the most significant out of all the reasons that Philodendrons are good for the bedroom is that the species helps to purify the air in your room.
Why buy a machine to do mother nature’s job, when nature does it better?
Whether you’re a smoker or simply someone who appreciates having clean air quality inside the room that they sleep in, Philodendrons may be your new best friend.
These plants will also trap the dust particles that are floating around in your room and add quite a bit of texture and atmosphere to your bedroom.
Some Philodendron owners even claim that the plants make them feel more upbeat and aware of their settings (which could have something to do with how the Philodendrons make you feel like you are in a jungle-like setting).
Depending on what color and size your Philodendrons are, these exotic plants will spice up the aesthetics of your bedroom at the very least.
What Philodendron Varieties Good When Plant in the Bedroom?
One of the greatest things about Philodendrons (besides how easy they are to grow and care for) is how many varieties there are to choose from.
Depending on the size, shape, and color you desire, you’ve got dozens of species to choose from.
For the bedroom specifically, a few Philodendron species really stand out:
- Philodendron bipinnatifidum
- Philodendron Birkin
- Philodendron Scandens
- Philodendron Erubescens
- Philodendron Melanochrysum
- Philodendron Rojo
- Philodendron Hederaceum Brasil
- Philodendron Gloriosum
- Philodendron Selloum
Where Should I Place a Philodendron in the Bedroom?
Practically anywhere in the bedroom is a good place for your philodendron, as long as it’s out of direct sunlight and/or hot or cold airflow from a heater or cooler.
The dresser is an ideal location to place your philodendron because it’s higher than other surfaces. That means your pets and children can’t reach it and disturb it.
If you live alone, or without small children or pets, the windowsill, nightstand, desk, or corner are all equally great places to put a philodendron in the bedroom.
Take Care Tips of Philodendron in the Bedroom
Thankfully, Philodendrons are extremely easy to care for compared to most houseplants.
For the most part, you can practically set it in the bedroom as a piece of furniture and forget about it (besides watering it regularly).
Follow these simple tips for a healthy and vibrant Philodendron in the bedroom:
- Water every 5 to 10 days (or when the top inch or two of soil is bone dry)
- Prune damaged, diseased, or dead parts of the plant regularly
- Use some sort of pest control, or keep a close eye on things
- Repot the plant every 12 to 18 months for propagation reasons
- Place your plants somewhere out of the reach of pets and children
- Feed the plant with well-balanced liquid nutrients or all-purpose fertilizer
- Dust your plants’ foliage every week or so to clear it of dirt it’s collected from the air
Common Problems When Plant Philodendron in the Bedroom
Philodendrons are one of the simplest houseplants for bedrooms, caring for them is quick and easy.
That said, there are a few common problems with Philodendrons you should be aware of and ready to remedy:
Overwatering
The biggest and most common issue with growing and caring for Philodendrons in your bedroom is overwatering it.
Philodendrons don’t need much water, so when we water them every few days (thinking we are helping them), we are actually slowly suffocating them and causing their root systems to potentially rot.
If the root system rots, the whole plant is done for.
Solution
The best way to avoid overwatering Philodendrons is to use a moisture meter, a stick, or even your fingers to check the moisture level of the soil. Do this regularly.
When the top 2 inches of the growing medium is completely dry, add water.
Overfertilization
The overfertilization of your bedroom Philodendron is another serious potential issue that you should be aware of.
Depending on the type of fertilizer you use, you most likely only need to apply it once every 4 to 8 weeks, though some plant food is for weekly use.
Fertilizing more often will cause your plant to stop taking up nutrients and water and slowly die off.
Solution
The best way to avoid over-fertilization is to purposefully under-fertilize it.
The truth is, Philodendrons don’t need much fertilizer, so go light on it and you’re plant will be thankful for the little bit it gets.
Overexposure to Bright Light
The overexposure of the Philodendrons in your bedroom could be detrimental to their health.
If your Philodendrons are sitting on the windowsill, or under a bright interior light, you’re going to have issues eventually.
Too much exposure to bright light is a sure way to zap your plants of all their energy and will to survive.
Solution
The best way to avoid overexposure to bright light for your Philodendrons is to carefully choose their location. For example, a dresser top, or a nightstand are excellent places for your plant.
A windowsill is only a good option if it receives 2 to 3 hours of bright sun or less per day.
Pests
Last but not least, pests are an issue you’ll need to take into consideration with the Philodendrons in your bedroom.
If you are potting your own plants, make sure to use fresh potting soil mix (or boil old soil).
Never pot indoor plants in outdoor soil because it may contain bacteria, disease, weeds, or bugs.
Solution
Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on your Philodendrons foliage and soil.
You may also consider misting your plant’s foliage with a mixture of lemon juice, water, and vinegar.
Both of these organic pest control methods work almost flawlessly to protect your plants from common pests like flies, mites, spiders, and more.
Some Other Good, Popular Options for Bedroom Plants
If you’re not sold on the idea of keeping Philodendrons in your bedroom, or perhaps you’re searching for a few companions for them, there are countless good and popular options.
A few of the very best bedroom plant options include:
- English Ivy
- Gardenia
- Golden Pothos
- Heart Leaf Philodendron
- Rubber Plant
- Snake Plant
- Spider Plant
- Succulents
- Palms (and mini palms)
- Peace Lily
