How to Trim Philodendron Air Roots

Philodendrons are tropical plants that produce aerial roots to help them climb upwards in their natural environment. These roots can become unsightly when they reach down your plant's pot, and can also take away from the plant's overall health. Trimming philodendron air roots is a simple process that can help keep your plant looking its best.

Here's how to trim philodendron air roots:

1. Gather your supplies.

- Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors

- A container of rubbing alcohol

2. Prepare the pruning shears.

- Wipe the pruning shears or scissors with rubbing alcohol to disinfect them.

- Do the same with your hands.

- This will help to prevent the spread of bacteria or fungal infections.

3. Identify the air roots to be trimmed.

- Air roots are the fleshy, white roots that grow from the stems of philodendrons.

- Do not cut roots directly attached to the main stems.

- Select air roots that have grown down far from the plant's base.

4. Cut the air roots.

- Use the clean pruning shears or scissors to cut the air roots close to the stem.

- Be careful not to damage the stem.

- If you accidentally make a wound on the stem, you can treat it with a little cinnamon or sulfur powder to help it heal.

5. Clean up the plant.

- Remove the trimmed air roots from the pot.

- Repot your philodendron as needed.

Tips for trimming philodendron air roots:

- Trim philodendron air roots regularly to prevent them from becoming unsightly.

- Trim air roots when they reach 6-8 inches in length.

- When trimming air roots, cut close to the stem, but not directly in contact with it.

- Avoid removing more than 20% of the plant’s air roots.

By following these steps, you can trim your philodendron air roots with confidence. This simple process will help keep your plant looking healthy and beautiful.