House Plant Help

Question

Hi, I have a houseplant that I adopted from my mother, who passed away in 2020. It’s a simple, vine-like window plant that I know nothing about, and I don’t even know what type it is. It has been in the same spot since I brought it home. I haven’t moved it. It gets some natural light, but not much direct sunlight, as it is near a northwest-facing window with some tree coverage. It has always been kept indoors, and I had been watering it about once a week or so. It was doing fine until about a month ago, but now it is starting to look unhealthy. I’m not sure if I’m watering it too much or not enough. Should I be watering the soil only, or also misting the leaves? How much water should I give it? Does it need to be repotted or fed with anything? Please see these pictures. I really want to help it and save it if I can. Thanks in advance, Mike

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Answer 1

It looks like a philodendron vine and they like moist, but not wet soil. It is best to water when the top inch or so of soil is dry rather than watering on a schedule. You can insert a finger into the soil to check on dryness. They enjoy bright, indirect light such as your plant is getting. You can trim it back to encourage new growth, and root new plants from the cuttings. It also wouldn't hurt to repot in fresh soil.

This article has tips for care that should help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/philodendron/caring-for-philodendrons.htm