Basic Information
| Name | Philodendron White Knight |
| Light | Medium to Bright Indirect |
| Temperature | 15-26ºC | 60-80ºF |
| Humidity | Moderate to High, 50-70% |
| Soil/Medium | Well-drained: Mix of potting soil, orchid bark, perlite, peat moss |
Want to upgrade your indoor space? Consider a Philodendron White Knight. These plants have stunning foliage with white variegation on each leaf. They’re also easy to care for but require specific environmental conditions.
Light
The Philodendron White Knight is a plant that thrives under medium to bright indirect sunlight. It is important to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as this can harm its delicate foliage, particularly the white variegated parts. However, prolonged shading can cause loss of variegation. Ideally, this plant should be placed in an east-facing window. Nevertheless, it can grow well in a west- or south-facing window, provided it is covered with a sheer curtain to diffuse direct rays. If natural light is insufficient, it is recommended to supplement it with artificial light sources.
Water
The Philodendron White Knight is a plant that requires moist soil. You should water it once to thrice a week during the summer season. However, you should reduce the watering to once every two weeks in winter. Check the top two inches with your finger to determine if the soil is still moist. Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases or root rot, so be careful not to overwater your plants. However, underwatering for extended periods can also be harmful. To avoid common issues like over-watering, ensure your plants are potted in containers with drainage holes and well-draining soil. After watering your plants, always empty any saucers so that your plants don’t sit in water.
Soil
Having well-drained and nutrient-rich soil is essential for the White Knight plant. A high-quality potting mix that contains ingredients like perlite and orchid bark is recommended for this purpose. A potting mix of 40% orchid bark, 30% potting soil, 20% coco coir, and 10% perlite is ideal for Philodendron White Knight. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its structure and nutritional value. However, it is important to ensure the soil retains moisture while allowing proper drainage to avoid root rot.
Temperature
Ideally, the temperature should be kept between 55 to 85°F. This tropical plant cannot withstand extreme cold. During colder seasons, it should be moved to a warmer spot inside the house to prevent damage to the leaves and overall plant health.
Humidity
For optimal growth of your plants, it’s best to maintain a humidity level above 70 percent. This humidity level imitates the plant’s natural rainforest environment and helps prevent leaf issues. Low humidity, on the other hand, can cause slow growth and other problems. Use a humidifier to increase humidity, place the plant in naturally humid areas like bathrooms, or use pebble trays. Another option is to group the plant with other tropical plants, as this can also help maintain the necessary humidity.
Tip: Using a moist cloth to wipe the leaves removes dust and pests, keeping them clean.
Fertilizer
To keep your Philodendron White Knight healthy, it’s recommended to fertilize it every three months during spring and summer. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer that contains essential nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, zinc, iron, and magnesium. Before using the fertilizer, dilute it to half-strength to ensure your plant gets the necessary nutrients without causing any harm. During autumn and winter, reduce the frequency of fertilization. Always refer to the package instructions for proper usage since using the wrong fertilizer can cause harm. Over-fertilizing should be avoided, as it can burn the roots and leaves.
Tip: To fix over-fertilization, water the plant thoroughly to remove excess fertilizer from the soil. Repeat several times.
Growth Rate
The Philodendron White Knight is a slow-growing plant that requires proper care to support its growth. This care includes providing adequate light, water, and fertilizer. It’s important to be patient with this plant, as it is a climbing variety, unlike the White Princess which is a stand-alone plant. As the White Knight grows, it will eventually require structural support to cling onto. With appropriate care, a fully mature White Knight can reach a height of 3m.
Pet Safety
This plant is toxic to humans and pets because of its calcium oxalate crystals. Keep it away from children and pets to avoid irritation and swelling.
Grow in Semi-Hydro
- Philodendrons, celebrated for their lush foliage and adaptability, thrive in semi-hydroponic systems such as LECA/Pon, thanks to their resilient root systems and preference for consistent moisture.
- Shifting a Philodendron to a semi-hydroponic setting works well using a Nutrient Stagnant Wicking (NSW) method, providing a stable and effective environment for growth.
- Within the LECA/Pon environment, Philodendron roots adapt swiftly, effectively managing any early challenges in adapting to the NSW system.
- For nourishing Philodendrons in semi-hydro systems, a nutrient solution with a concentration around 800-1000ppm is optimal.
- Philodendrons are versatile in adapting to a range of temperature and humidity levels, making them ideal for various indoor settings.
- Regular care involves keeping an eye on the water level in the reservoir and periodically flushing the system to ensure the Philodendron’s healthy and consistent growth.
- If your Philodendron is a climber, it’s a must to look at our Moss Pole guide to have a proper set-up.
Tips
- Regularly inspect for pests like aphids, mealybugs, and whiteflies. Treat infestations with neem oil or pest control products.
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Ensure pots have drainage holes and don’t let the plant sit in water.
- Prune to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged parts. This helps in nutrient distribution.
- Increase humidity using a humidifier, pebble trays, or by grouping with other plants.
- Adjust watering frequency according to season and light conditions
Philodendron White Knight is a good option for those who like hefty indoor plants. Follow the care and propagation tips mentioned above for a beautiful green and white urban jungle at home.
Happy planting! 🌱
