Aroid Care Guide
Aroids are some of the most loved houseplants thanks to their dramatic foliage, tropical feel, and rewarding growth. This guide covers the basics for keeping Monstera, Philodendron, Alocasia, Pothos, Anthurium and other aroids thriving indoors.
Light
Most aroids prefer bright, indirect light. Too much harsh direct sun can scorch leaves, while very low light may slow growth.
Water
Water when the top part of the soil begins to dry. Aroids enjoy moisture, but dislike sitting in soggy soil.
Soil
Use a chunky, airy aroid mix to improve drainage and airflow around the roots.
What Are Aroids?
Aroids are tropical plants from the Araceae family. Popular houseplants in this group include Monstera, Philodendron, Alocasia, Pothos, Anthurium, Syngonium, and Peace Lilies.
In nature, many grow in warm, humid forests with loose organic material around their roots — which is why they prefer chunky, breathable soil indoors.
Best Position
Place aroids near a bright window with filtered light. East-facing windows are often ideal, while south-facing windows may need a sheer curtain to soften direct sunlight.
Keep plants away from cold draughts, radiators, and sudden temperature changes where possible.
Watering Routine
- Always check the soil before watering.
- Water thoroughly until excess drains away.
- Never leave pots sitting in water.
- Reduce watering during colder months.
- Most aroids prefer slightly moist — not constantly wet — soil.
Humidity & Temperature
Most aroids enjoy warmer temperatures and average to higher humidity. While many adapt well to normal homes, extra humidity can encourage stronger growth and healthier leaves.
Brown crispy edges are often linked to dry air, inconsistent watering, or excessive direct sun.
Why Chunky Aroid Mix Matters
Standard compost can stay too dense and wet for tropical aroids. A chunky mix helps improve airflow and drainage around the roots.
- Pine bark helps create air pockets
- Perlite improves drainage
- Coco coir helps retain balanced moisture
- Charcoal supports freshness within the mix
Common Problems
- Yellow leaves: often caused by overwatering or poor drainage.
- Drooping leaves: can be linked to watering issues, root problems, or temperature stress.
- Brown edges: low humidity, underwatering, or strong direct sun.
- Slow growth: usually caused by low light or cold conditions.
- Root rot: often caused by dense soil staying wet for too long.
Feeding
Feed lightly during spring and summer using a balanced houseplant fertiliser. Most aroids need less feeding during autumn and winter.
Repotting
Repot when roots begin circling the pot, emerging through drainage holes, or the plant dries out unusually quickly after watering.
Move up only slightly in pot size each time and always use a breathable, free-draining mix.
Quick Aroid Checklist
- Bright indirect light
- Chunky, airy soil
- Water when partly dry
- Good drainage holes
- Warm temperatures
- Avoid constantly soggy soil