Question
I have several large split leaf Philodendrons large pots, 18" 22" 28" Etc. they were huge and beautiful, I told my husband to bring them in the house because we were expecting frost overnight, he forgot, in the morning they were all VERY wilted, but not dead, I immediately brought them into my warm living room, what can I do to revive them (if anything?)

Answer
Hi Vanessa,

I don't know where you live, but I have been getting a lot of cold damage questions recently as a result of unusually cold temps in the US and Europe.

Cold affects the leaves and stems first because they are unprotected and most vulnerable to cold. The roots are more important to the plant and are insulated somewhat by the soil and pot. Therefore, brief exposure to cold will often damage leaf tissue, but the plant will survive.

Damaged leaves should be trimmed off because they will not recover. Beyond that there is little you can do except the obvious. Keep the plants warm, provide good light and reduce the water a bit. More importantly do NOT repot, fertilize, pour hot water on the soil or be impatient. If the roots are not damaged, then the plant will slowly push out healthy new growth and eventually your plants will fill out and recover.

If there is no sign of new growth within a month or so, then the roots were also frozen and the plant will not recover.

I have written an article on cold damage that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at [email protected].

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