Variegated Burle Marx Philodendron 

Care Guide:

Philodendrons are one of the most popular houseplants because they are both low-maintenance and stunning, with around 400 different species to choose from. Rare varieties, such as the variegated Burle Marx, are particularly sought after by collectors.

The leaves of the philodendron plant are arrowhead-shaped and come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. While some leaves may be solid green or yellow/cream, many feature a unique and intricate blend of both colors in a striking "splash" pattern.

When grown in optimal conditions, philodendrons can grow rapidly and produce multiple leaves each month. With their unique beauty and ease of care, it's no wonder that philodendrons have become such a beloved staple in the world of houseplants.

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Light: 

Variegated Burle Marx is a beautiful plant that requires bright, indirect light to thrive. While it can tolerate lower light levels, doing so for an extended period can cause the plant's variegation to revert. So, it's essential to choose a bright corner in a room that receives plenty of sunlight but not direct light. Too much direct light can cause black or brown sunburn spots on the leaves, which can be unsightly.

Water: 

Keeping your variegated Burle Marx well-hydrated is crucial to its health. Like other philodendrons, it prefers to have moist soil, but not soggy. Therefore, always ensure that the container you are using has a drainage hole to allow excess water to escape. Remember, water stress can shock the plant, leading to drooping leaves and slow or stunted growth. To avoid this, check the soil regularly, and allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering is easier than under-watering, so it's crucial to get on a watering schedule that works best for your plant and your schedule.

Soil: 

To thrive, Burle Marx plants need well-draining, slightly acidic soil. A mix of peat moss, coco coir, and perlite is ideal for providing the necessary drainage and acidity. Make sure the soil allows for proper aeration, so the roots don't suffocate.

Temperature: 

To keep your Burle Marx healthy and growing, maintain a temperature of at least 60°F (15°C).

Humidity: 

Philodendrons thrive in high humidity environments. If you live in a dry climate, daily misting can help. During the cold and dry winter months, use a humidifier or place a pot of water on your stovetop and boil it for about 30 minutes daily.

Fertilizer: 

Use any general-purpose, balanced fertilizer, and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Dilute the fertilizer in half to avoid overfeeding. Keep in mind that Burle Marx Philodendrons grow in areas with low soil nutrient levels.

Maintenance: 

Burle Marx plants are generally low-maintenance. Inspect the plant regularly for pests and remove any yellow leaves. It's also recommended to size up the pot annually to provide enough space for the plant's growth. Aroids are sensitive to salt build-up in their pots from tap water or fertilizer, so regularly flushing the soil by allowing water to run out of the pot is crucial.

Monthly leaf shining with a neem oil-dampened paper towel can help remove pests and dust that may accumulate on the leaves.

Troubleshooting:

Wilted leaves are a common issue with the variegated Burle Marx, indicating insufficient light. The lack of chlorophyll in the variegated leaves makes it harder for the plant to photosynthesize properly.

If leaves revert back to entirely green, it's another sign the plant isn't receiving enough light.

Common Pests:

Fungus gnats, spider mites, and thrips are common pests that can infest Burle Marx plants. Regular inspections, maintenance, and weekly neem oil leaf shining can help prevent infestations.

Overwatering:

Yellow, black, or brown leaves, especially new leaves near the top of the plant, can signal overwatering. This is particularly true if the pot lacks a drainage hole, and the soil is easily waterlogged. If you suspect overwatering, immediately repot the plant into fresh, sterile soil with good drainage. Cut off any black, mushy roots. To bring oxygen to the roots, use a diluted hydrogen peroxide mixture (1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide to 3 parts water) to water the plant. This will also help reduce the risk of bacterial and viral infections.

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