Leaf sheath not releasing leaf - Ask Extension
I have a philodendron 'Rio' that has three new leaves. Each leaf has not been able to open out due to the sheath surrounding it not opening out or re...
Knowledgebase
Leaf sheath not releasing leaf #652387
Asked June 17, 2020, 4:41 PM EDT
I have a philodendron 'Rio' that has three new leaves. Each leaf has not been able to open out due to the sheath surrounding it not opening out or releasing it. So the leaf is deformed and the tip is still caught in the tight sheath. I tore one sheath off, but the leaf remains crinkled in on itself. I have started fertilizing with Shultz every other watering.
It gets filtered light through a sheer curtain in late afternoon. The leaves have turned toward the light. The color is not bright like in the greenhouse. It stays consistently moist, but does not dry out completely or get soggy. It sits on a pebble tray with water for humidity.
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
This condition, tip curl, is likely due to too much fertilizer. If you used a slow release fertilizer, leach some of the fertilizer out by overwatering. And cut back to a monthly or bimonthly weak (1/2 strength) fertilizer schedule. If no improvement you may need to replace the soil. See: https://extension.psu.edu/philodendron-diseases
