Question
I just bought a Philodendron swiss cheese plant.  On the way home, in my car the leaves turned black from the sun.  What should I do? Is there a way to get rid of the black spots? Do I cut off the leaves that are black from the top or bottom of the stem?  Or should I return the plant to the store?

Answer
Hi Michelle,

Any leaves that are discolored because of the sun will not recover, so it is best to cut them off. Cut off the entire leaf stem at its base where it connects to the main stem. This will affect the appearance of the plant, but not its health. In time, healthy new growth will come in to replace the sun-damaged leaves.

You can try to return it to the store, but they may not replace it because they are not the cause of the damage.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com