Potting

A large terracotta or ceramic pot is ideal for Philodendron plants. Also, while it may seem obvious, make sure your pot has a bottom hole.

Lack of drainage is a major threat to most plants, including Philodendron Rojo Congo. 

As your Philodendron Rojo Congo grows, you might consider upgrading from your current pot to a new pot for best results or on an as-needed basis. Typically, this will occur every year because Congo Reds grow quickly.

In between potting changes, you can refresh your plant’s old soil with a new organic potting soil to freshen up your Philodendron plant each year.

Water

When watering Red Congo, aim for an evenly moist potting mix. Inspect the soil with your finger. When the top inch of soil feels dry, water your Philodendron.

Overwatering is a leading cause of indoor plant death. When in doubt, under water rather than over water the Red Congo. Underwatering can stunt growth, but it can usually be corrected with time and patience.

Also, always use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes.

Avoid putting your Philodendron Rojo Congo in direct sunlight, as this could severely damage or even kill it.

Light

Philodendron Rojo Congo’s light requirements range from bright indirect light to part shade. You’re trying to simulate the conditions of South American rainforests. Pacing this plant near an east or west-facing window works well in most situations. Plan to keep this plant in bright indirect light for 3-4 hours per day.

If the leaves of your Red Congo begin to turn yellow or become scorched, you’ll know it’s been exposed to too much light. On the other hand, if this plant does not receive enough light, its stems may become long and leggy.

Drooping and yellow leaves may indicate overexposure to light, but they may also indicate a lack of fertility. More information can be found in our fertilizer section.

Soil

For the Red Congo, organic potting soil is a suitable choice. Use coco coir, orchid bark, perlite, activated charcoal if you make your own. Keep in mind that Rojo Congo prefers an evenly moist growth medium, and your soil type should accommodate this.