From my perspective, light is my life source. I am a tropical plant, evolved to bask under the dappled light of taller trees or in full sun. To thrive indoors and have the energy to produce my magnificent, upright leaves and potential flowers, I require very bright light. A south-facing window is my ideal spot, where I can receive several hours of direct sunlight. An east or west-facing window can also suffice. Without enough light, my growth will become stunted, my new leaves will be small and weak, and I will lean dramatically toward the light source in a desperate attempt to photosynthesize. Rotate my pot a quarter turn every week to ensure I grow evenly and don't become lopsided.
My watering needs are a delicate balance. My large, broad leaves lose a lot of moisture through transpiration, and my substantial root system requires a consistent drink. However, I despise sitting in soggy, waterlogged soil. The best method is to check my soil moisture first. Insert your finger about 2-3 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it is time to water. When you do water, do so thoroughly until water runs freely out of the drainage holes at the bottom of my pot. This ensures the entire root ball is hydrated. Then, always empty the saucer beneath me to prevent root rot. In the winter, when my growth slows, I will need much less water.
I hail from a warm, humid climate, and I yearn for that environment indoors. Average household humidity is often too dry for me, especially in winter, which can cause my leaf tips to turn brown and crispy. To make me happy, please mist my leaves regularly, place a humidifier nearby, or set my pot on a pebble tray filled with water (ensure the pot is not sitting directly in the water). I prefer temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) and am highly sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature changes from heating vents or air conditioners. Keep me away from these stressful elements.
To support my large size and push out new growth, I need nutrients. During the spring and summer, feed me with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength every 4-6 weeks. This gives me the strength to unfurl those large, beautiful leaves. Please do not over-fertilize me, as this can burn my roots and damage me. In the autumn and winter, when my growth naturally slows, you should stop feeding me altogether, as I am resting and cannot process the nutrients.
As a large plant, I need room for my roots to expand and anchor me. You will know I need a new home when my roots become visibly crowded and start to circle the inside of the pot or grow out of the drainage holes. Typically, this is needed every 2-3 years. Choose a new pot that is only 2-4 inches larger in diameter than my current one. A pot that is too large will hold excess soil that stays wet for too long, leading to root rot. Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix to give my roots the perfect balance of moisture retention and aeration.
