4in Philodendron Rio

Light

Select a spot where your Philodendron Rio will receive bright, indirect light. Although they're somewhat tolerant of low light conditions, if the position is too shady, the variegation usually fades, and the foliage can become leggy. You don't want to go to all that effort sourcing a Rio cultivar for the leaves to end up solid green. Leaf scorch is common if your plant sits in direct sun for too long.

A couple of hours of direct morning sun shouldn't be a major problem, but avoid continual direct sun through the afternoon from a south or west-facing window. If these are the only windows your plant can sit on, covering them with a sheer curtain can help reduce the intensity of the sun's rays.

Soil

These plants do well in a potting mix specially designed for aroid species. If you want to make your own, try blending one part potting soil, one part perlite, and one part orchid bark. They prefer a slightly acidic mix, and the orchid bark helps to add this element. The blend also ensures good aeration and drainage while still retaining adequate moisture.

Water

There's no need to panic if you occasionally forget to water your Philodendron Rio. They don't have extensive or fussy watering requirements. The main thing is not to overwater them—if they're left to stand in water, it can lead to root rot. Wait for the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out before watering again, and make sure they're in a pot with good drainage holes.