Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma is one of the most unique plants and comes in different names.
It is also sometimes called Ginny Philodendron or Philodendron Piccolo.
However, both plants come from different species.
These roots tend to latch itself to whatever surface they find which helps stabilize itself as it grows.
This indoor plant thrives well in bright sunlight, moist soil, and decent air circulation.
On the other hand, it does not develop well in a low light environment.
In this case, expect the leaves to remain small while the plant itself grows very slowly.
Even those without a green thumb will be able to handle this plant without getting frustrated.
Here are some of the essentials when taking care of this plant.
ensure to follow each segment to achieve success.
confirm your pot has added weight to be able to support the plant as it grows and climbs higher.
Soil
This vining plant grows well in well-drained loamy soil.
These ingredients help drain the water while maintaining the moisture.
Avoid soils that are dry, sandy or can clog water.
Keep the potting mix constantly damp and not wet.
The important thing is to not let this plant go dry.
Maintain a pH level of 6.0 to 6.5. see to it that the soil is moist and contains high levels of organic matter.
Avoid wet, dry, sandy soil.
Fertilizer
Use high-quality and well-balanced fertilizer that doesnt contain urea and harsh chemicals.
Slow-release organic fertilizer reduces the risk of burning.
Rhaphidophora tetrasperma are known to have sensitive roots and prone to fertilizer burn.
Apply regular fertilizing throughout its growing phase.
If you are using a liquid organic fertilizer, do this monthly.
Meanwhile, for diluted chemical liquid fertilizers, follow a biweekly plan.
On the other hand, if you are using a slow-release fertilizer, double-check to follow the directions.
Lighting
In terms of sunlight, keep this plant away from direct exposure to the sun.
Direct sunlight can turn its leaves into yellow.
Hence, rhaphidophora tetrasperma thrives in bright and indirect light replicating the way plants receive natural light.
Place it in the eastern area to get a good amount of lighting.
However, avoid low lit environment because it will only slow down the growth of the plant.
Temperature
The most ideal temperature for rhaphidophora tetrasperma is between 55 to 58 degrees Fahrenheit.
It can endure a slightly cooler temperature but not a freezing environment.
Once the temperature hits below 55 degrees, this plant should be placed indoors.
Nonetheless, check that you position it in a spot that receives bright and indirect sunlight.
A damp soil works best for this throw in of plant.
If it is still moist, delay watering it.
When needed, water it lightly to maintain an even moisture level.
During its active growth phase, rhaphidophora tetrasperma will require more water.
However, it doesnt require frequent watering during the cooler months.
In terms of humidity, this tropical plant needs at least around 50% to 60%.
This makes the environment ideal for growth and prevents the development of microorganisms.
The best way to maintain the ideal level of humidity indoors is to use a humidifier or dehumidifier.
Place the plant near the humidifier to increase or decrease the moisture level.
A humidifier works best during the winter season when the air is dry.
Meanwhile, a dehumidifier is more suitable during the summer months when the air has more moisture.
Repotting
With the rapid growth of rhaphidophora tetrasperma, its best to re-pot this vining plant yearly.
Add support where the vines can climb such as a moss pole or trellis.
Use a pot that is one inch bigger than your existing pot.
confirm that the pot has drainage holes in it.
Avoid using hanging baskets.
When repotting, fill the pot with equal parts of potting soil and activated charcoal.
Use a sharp knife, scissor or pruning shears to cut it.
Cut the stem at the soil level where the stem starts to meet the main part of the plant.
Always use a clean knife, scissor or shears to prevent the risk of fungal and bacterial diseases.
When it comes to cutting, keep your trimmings clean.
Damaged cuts can cause the plant to weaken.
Do not remove aerial roots because it can also add stress to the plant.
How to prevent brown spots from forming?
When watering the plants, do it the earliest as possible in the morning.
This allows the plant to become dry before nighttime.
However, keep the leaves dry to prevent brown spots from forming.
Why do the leaves turn yellow?
The leaves of the rhaphidophora tetrasperma tend to become yellowish when it is overwatered.
Before watering the plant, look to see if the soil is dry enough.
What causes the leaves to turn black?
Overexposure to direct sunlight can cause the leaves to turn black.
Also, see to it to trim any damaged leaves as soon as it forms.
What causes the top leaves to fall?
Another culprit may be overwatering for long periods.
What if it doesnt have fenestrations?
Fenestrations are the splits in the leaves which give character to a plant.
In the case of rhaphidophora tetrasperma, its normal for younger plants not to have splits.
Lack of sunlight is often the primary reason why the leaves dont split as it should.
What should I do with damaged leaves from the transit of Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma?
Use a combination of sphagnum moss and control potting soil.
Why do the leaves start to curl?
To avoid this, apply fertilizer every four months and follow the instructions in your fertilizer.
Another way is to place your plant near a humidifier or dehumidifier to keep the humidity at sufficient levels.
Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma Diseases
You may run into different types of problems when caring for your rhaphidophora tetrasperma.
Fungal root
This plant disease is due to fungi which can damage your plant.
To avoid this, maintain a damp soil but double-check it is not soggy.
If it previously has rotten roots, consider switching to a higher quality draining soil.
They are often found under the leaves on the midrib section.
Check for small webs.
These insects suck out the chlorophyll from the leaves and damages the leaves.
Spider mite infestation is one of the major issues of this plant.
It will kill these pests in just a few minutes.
Mold
When your plant starts to show signs of mold, remove it immediately.
Remove the topsoil and replace it with at least two inches of houseplant compost.
Mold can be due to either overwatering or too little sunlight.
it’s possible for you to also lessen the frequency of watering your plant.
If the mold comes with yellowing of the lower leaves, this may be a sign of root rot.
The simplest way to propagate this plant is by cutting the stems.
Cut the area with at least two nodes then put it in water or moist potting soil.
The lowest leaf node should be placed beneath the surface.
The area you cut must have an aerial root and node.
The node makes the plant more stable as you plant it and will grow a root.
After a few weeks, youll start to notice roots developing.
If you are using water, always change it daily.
Once the roots have formed, you’re able to start caring for it as a new plant.
Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma Tissue Culture
Another way to grow this plant is through tissue culture.
The explant or the plant extracted is placed in a gel to induce its growth.
The gel or whatever medium you are using enables the explant to produce more plantlets.
Hormones are also used to speed up root growth.
Tissue culture serves as a method of micropropagation.
Where do you buy Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma?
It can also be placed outside by the front door or on the patio.
However, the major noticeable difference is in the leaves.
The pertusa has tiny holes along the section of the midrib.
Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma vs Monstera Deliciosa
The rhaphidophora tetrasperma and monstera deliciosa also appear similar to one another.
However, the monstera deliciosa is larger.
Hence, the rhaphidophora tetrasperma is nicknamed mini monstera.
Monstera Deliciosa also has bigger leaves.
Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma vs Juvenile Monstera
The appearance of a rhaphidophora tetrasperma and juvenile monstera is also confusing.
However, if you look more closely, the leaves of the juvenile monstera have shorter petioles.
Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma vs Epipremnum
Rhaphidophora tetrasperma and epipremnum come from the same Araceae family.
However, the difference is the cultivation process.
Epipremnum thrives well in greenhouses or shaded areas.
It is also harder to find.
With the growing demand, many sellers are making it easily available to buy online.
Even if youre new to house planting, the rhaphidophora tetrasperma is a great way to start your journey.
It is easy to maintain and fuss-free.
Unlike other plants that require more attention and special care, you wont stress overgrowing this evergreen vining plant.
This attractive plant will make any living space more pleasant and relaxing to the eyes.
