ROOT CONVERSION FROM AERIAL TO SUBTERRANEAN ROOTS OF PHILODENDRON LEMON LIME (Philodendron domesticum cv. Lemon lime T.) STEM CUTTINGS UNDER DIFFERENT GROWING MEDIA

This study evaluated how the aerial root maturity and different growing media influence root conversion and growth performance in Philodendron lemon lime stem cuttings. Conducted from February to April 2025 in the Department of Horticulture, Visayas State University, the research aimed to determine the most suitable root maturity level and substrate type for efficient propagation. The treatment groups included young and mature aerial roots planted in five growing media: pure coco peat, pure coco cubes, and combinations of coco peat or coco cubes with rice hull and vermicast.

Our findings showed that the aerial root maturity had no significant effect on the plant survival, root conversion rate, or overall growth. In contrast, the growing medium had a significant influence on all the measured parameters. Pure coco peat consistently supported better root development, including a higher root length gain, number of root tips, and root surface area, while pure coco cubes performed poorly, likely due to limited moisture retention.

These results highlight the importance of choosing appropriate growing media to enhance the rooting success and plant vigor in Philodendron lemon lime propagation.