Light
To encourage the most vigorous growth and the best variegation, the white wizard Philodendron should be placed in a location that receives several hours of bright, indirect light. Variegated plants require more light than their non-variegated counterparts since their leaves have less chlorophyll, so while many Philodendron varieties can tolerate low-light conditions, this hybrid is not one of them. At the same time, harsh sunlight can easily damage this plant’s delicate leaves, so avoid direct sun where possible.
Soil
Like most Philodendrons, white wizard Philodendrons do best in rich, well-draining potting mixes. A mixture of equal parts indoor potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark mix is nutrient-dense and well-draining while still retaining some moisture. Plus, it’s easy and affordable to make yourself. Try making a big batch so you have some of this potting mix on hand whenever one of your Philodendrons needs to be repotted.
Water
White wizard Philodendrons are sensitive to overwatering and should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Wait until the top 50% of the potting mix is dry and then water thoroughly, allowing any excess water to drain from the pot’s drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
These tropical plants are not cold-tolerant and prefer consistently warm conditions. This makes them ideal houseplants as they thrive in average household temperatures. While white wizard Philodendrons also grow well in average household humidity levels, they will thrive if provided with some added humidity. Try placing a humidifier nearby or growing your plant on a small pebble tray. Alternatively, naturally humid rooms like the bathroom or laundry room are great locations for this tropical plant.
Fertilizer
Regular fertilization is key to encouraging healthy variegated growth. During the spring and summer, apply a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every two to three weeks during watering. Stop fertilizing during the fall and winter when the plant is no longer actively growing.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for this climbing Philodendron but may be desired to control growth or encourage fresh variegation. Ensure that any pruning is done during the plant’s active growing period— spring or summer—as the plant is less likely to recover from pruning when it is dormant in fall or winter. Additionally, always make sure that you use pruning shears or scissors that have been freshly sterilized to avoid accidentally introducing harmful bacteria to your plant. Most importantly, don’t throw away those stem cuttings! They can be used to propagate and grow new plants.
Propagating White Wizard Philodendron
Although it may feel nerve-wracking, propagating white wizard Philodendron is actually pretty easy to do. With a little practice, you’ll be propagating your plant regularly! Like many other vining Philodendrons, it is propagated by stem cuttings, although many growers choose to use sphagnum moss rather than water when it comes to rooting the cuttings. Here’s how you can propagate your white wizard Philodendron in just a few steps:
Potting and Repotting White Wizard Philodendron
White wizard Philodendron should be repotted once every one to two years in the spring or summer. Choose a pot that is two to four inches larger than your plant’s previous container and repot your plant with plenty of fresh, well-draining soil mix. After repotting, ensure that you return your plant to its original location and water thoroughly, allowing any excess water to drain from the pot’s drainage holes.
Common Pests and Plant Diseases
When it comes to pests, watch out for some common houseplant pests like spider mites, thrips, fungus gnats, and scale which will all happily take up residence in this tropical plant if given the chance. Treat your plant with an appropriate insecticide or neem oil at the first sign of an infestation. Additionally, like many Philodendrons, the white wizard Philodendron can develop fungal leaf spots which appear as small yellow, red/orange, or brown spots on its leaves. If you notice that your plant has developed leaf spot, there are a few steps you should take. First, move your plant away from any other houseplants to prevent the disease from spreading. Next, treat your plant with a copper-based fungicide to help combat the disease. Lastly, reduce humidity around the plant until the leaf spot has resolved. Humid conditions provide the perfect environment for bacteria to grow and thrive. Like most houseplants, the white wizard Philodendron can develop root rot if it is overwatered. Ensure that your plant has adequate drainage (always use a pot with drainage holes) and allow the potting medium to dry slightly between waterings.
Common Problems With White Wizard Philodendron
Unless you have a lot of experience growing similar types of rare variegated aroids, it’s likely that you’ll encounter at least one of these problems as you are learning how to care for your white wizard. If you do, don’t worry. While these plants can be tricky to get the hang of they are pretty hardy and can bounce back easily.
Lack of Variegation
If your white wizard Philodendron is looking a little lackluster and not putting out the brilliant white variegation that its so known for, it’s likely because your plant is not receiving the right amount of light. It should be located directly in front of or within a few feet of a bright window (but not directly in the sun’s rays). If you are worried that your space doesn’t receive enough light, try adding a grow light into your setup to provide this Philodendron with enough light to begin variegating.
Leggy Growth
Leggy growth is another indication that your white wizard Philodendron needs more light. Unfortunately, leggy growth cannot be reversed. However you can take steps to ensure that the new growth goes back to normal. Move your plant to a brighter location or place it under a grow light to ensure that new growth is not leggy.
Yellow Leaves
Sometimes yellow leaves are just old leaves dying off to make way for new growth. However, other times yellow leaves can be an indication that something in your plant’s growing environment isn’t quite right. If the leaves turning yellow are new growth (towards the top of the plant) then this is likely the case. The most common culprits are a lack of light and under watering, although overwatering can also cause yellowing. Examine your plant’s growing environment to determine what the issue may be for your particular plant.
