How to Grow and Care for Philodendron Summer Glory

The Philodendron Summer Glory is a terrestrial hybrid plant, a cross between Philodendron gloriosum and Philodendron pastazanum. This plant is prized for the dynamic color of its leaves. New foliage emerges in a striking coppery-pink or reddish shade. As the leaves expand and harden, they transition to a deep, velvety green with a subtle sheen. This constant evolution of color makes it a captivating specimen for indoor gardeners.

Philodendron Summer Glory Care Guide

Light

This plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Placing it a few feet away from an east or west-facing window is ideal, providing gentle morning or evening sun without the harsh intensity of midday rays. Direct sun exposure can scorch the delicate leaves, causing discoloration.

In lower light conditions, the vibrant, coppery color of new leaves may appear dull or fail to develop. The plant may also become “leggy,” as stems grow long and sparse while stretching for a light source.

Soil

The right soil is foundational for preventing root rot. A chunky, well-draining aroid mix is the recommended substrate because it provides the aeration and moisture balance philodendrons need. Key ingredients include orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir.

These components create a light, airy medium. Orchid bark and perlite create large air pockets, allowing oxygen to reach the roots and preventing waterlogged soil. Coco coir helps retain some moisture without becoming overly saturated, and some growers also add worm castings to provide a slow release of natural nutrients.

Water

A consistent watering routine is necessary for this plant. The guideline is to water thoroughly only when the top one to two inches of the soil have dried out. When it is time to water, do so until water freely drains from the bottom of the pot, ensuring the entire root system is hydrated.

Overwatering is a significant risk and can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering will vary based on environmental factors like light and temperature, so check the soil moisture rather than adhering to a strict schedule. During the winter months, when growth slows, watering should be reduced.

Temperature and Humidity

As a tropical plant, the Philodendron Summer Glory prefers warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Protect the plant from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops, which can cause stress.

This philodendron also appreciates high humidity, ideally 60% or higher. While it can tolerate average household humidity, providing a more humid environment results in healthier leaves. You can increase humidity by grouping it with other plants, placing it on a pebble tray with water, or using a room humidifier.

Fertilizer

To support its growth, the Philodendron Summer Glory benefits from regular feeding during its active growing season. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, is recommended. Apply this every four to six weeks throughout the spring and summer.

Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter, as the plant’s growth naturally slows. Excess fertilizer can accumulate and burn the roots, so always water the plant before fertilizing.

Understanding its Crawling Growth Habit

The Philodendron Summer Glory has a distinct crawling growth pattern. Its main stem, or rhizome, grows horizontally across the surface of the soil, unlike vining philodendrons that grow vertically. The rhizome will periodically send down roots into the soil to anchor itself and absorb nutrients as it extends.

This crawling habit has direct implications for potting. A Philodendron Summer Glory is best suited for a long, rectangular planter instead of a standard deep pot. This shape accommodates the horizontal growth of the rhizome, giving it space to spread out. Using a trough-style pot allows the plant to remain in contact with the soil, enabling it to root along its length and supporting its stability.

How to Propagate Philodendron Summer Glory

Propagating a Philodendron Summer Glory is done through rhizome cuttings. To begin, you will need a pair of clean, sterile pruning shears or a sharp knife to prevent spreading disease. Identify a healthy section of the rhizome that has at least one leaf and one node, which is a small joint from which new growth will emerge. Make a clean cut to separate the cutting from the mother plant.

After taking the cutting, you can root it in several mediums. Placing it in water allows you to monitor root growth, or you can use moist sphagnum moss or perlite. Place the cutting in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Once a healthy root system develops, the new plant can be potted into a suitable soil mix.

Common Problems and Solutions

Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips can be an issue. Spider mites may create fine webbing on the undersides of leaves, while mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses. Regular inspection can help you catch these pests early, and infestations can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Leaf discoloration can indicate a care issue. Yellowing leaves are often a sign of overwatering. Brown and crispy leaf edges are a symptom of low humidity, which can be resolved by increasing moisture in the air.

Root rot is a significant problem caused by overwatering. Initial signs include wilting leaves or a mushy stem base. If you suspect root rot, act quickly by removing the plant from its pot, cutting away any black or mushy roots, and repotting in fresh, dry soil.