Question
Hi Will -

I've had a Tree Philodendron (philodendron selloum) for 16
years. The tag says it should grow upright 3-4' and is self-
supporting. The stalks are indeed 3 to 4' but my problem is they
grow wide (all towards the window of course). In a Manhattan
apartment, he's taking up too much space! I think I can just tie
up the stalks so he grows more vertical, but I don't know how to
do that or what material to use so as not to cause damage. Can I
just gather the stalks and tie something around them or do I
have to use a stake? Please help! I don't want to kill my long time
friend.

Thanks!
Rebecca

Answer
Hi Rebecca,

First, my congratulations to you for keeping your P. selloum healthy for so long!

Selloums are self-supporting for a few years, but not so after that, as you have discovered. Gotta love those tags!

It is hard to give you a specific answer without seeing a photo or seeing in real life just what your Selloum looks like and just how flexible it is.

However, I can say that, in general, it is safe to gather the stems and tie them to one another and/or to a sturdy stake, using soft twine. The twine should loop around the stems and stake and be tied to itself, not tied to the plant stems directly. Be careful not to bend the stems too far or they may snap, depending on how brittle they are.

If you would like to send me a photo or arrange for an on-site visit, contact me through my address/phone below.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.
   
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC
917-887-8601

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

Visit my web site at www.HorticulturalHelp.com

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