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How to Train a Philodendron to Climb a Trellis
How to Train a Philodendron to Climb a Trellis. The philodendron is a hardy vine that can be grown indoors, or outdoors in tropical climates. When used as a hanging plant, it will produce long vines that eventually trail to the floor and across any surface it encounters. It will grow upward, however, if you give it something to climb on like a...
The philodendron is a hardy vine that can be grown indoors, or outdoors in tropical climates. When used as a hanging plant, it will produce long vines that eventually trail to the floor and across any surface it encounters. It will grow upward, however, if you give it something to climb on like a trellis or windowsill.
Things You'll Need
Trellis
Pipe cleaners or plant ties
Plunge the base of the trellis into the soil of the philodendron pot. If you're using a large trellis outdoors, fasten it to a wall, fence or post. If your outdoor philodendron needs to be brought inside for winter, make sure that you set the trellis so you can bring it in along with the plant.
Lift the body of the vine and set it onto the trellis where you want it. The philodendron doesn't send out tendrils like some other vining plants, but it may put out stubby "air roots" on occasion, especially if it is climbing a trellis made of wood. The leaves will also twist around to orient toward the sun; since the leaf stems are strong, this may help the plant cling to the trellis as well.
Tie drooping vines into place with a soft, flexible plant tie. You can purchase these from a garden supply store, or just use green pipe cleaners. Do not to tie the plant to the trellis so tightly that you pinch the stem.
Pinch or cut off any wayward vines that can't be guided onto the trellis. Cut or pinch just above where a leaf separates from the stem, then place the pinched-off section in damp soil to root.
Tips & Warnings
Pinching off the stems occasionally will encourage the plant to grow more stems and more leaves, creating a bushier appearance.
The philodendron endures low light relatively well, but grows best in bright, filtered light. Your philodendron will thrive in a humid environment, especially during the summer; mist the plant's leaves with a spray bottle. Fertilize your philodendron every month or two with a regular household plant fertilizer.
The philodendron is poisonous to humans and house pets. When you're planning your trellis placement, make sure to keep the plant way away from children and animals that might nibble on it, particularly cats.
