HOW TO CARE FOR MONSTERA DELICIOSA
Monstera Deliciosa’s are fairly easy to take care of, which is why they are great beginner plants. Just like any other plant, though, If they don’t receive the right light, correct watering, or the proper temperature, the foliage may suffer.
The Swiss Cheese Plant, also known as Monstera Deliciosa or the Split Leaf Philodendron, is the king of houseplants and one of our favourite tropical plants to recommend for new gardeners. Care for a Monstera plant is relatively straightforward, with no need to take a deep dive into organic gardening or become an expert in foliage types. Growing the young plant is as simple as replicating the conditions of its natural habitat, checking for pests, and ensuring the pot has good drainage holes.Written with the advice of our expert horticulturalists at Gardeners Dream, this guide will take you through the basics of Monstera Deliciosa plant care with some troubleshooting tips for dealing with pests and yellow leaves too.
Monstera Care Instructions
Two different species of Monstera are cultivated as houseplants – Monstera deliciosa and Monstera adansoni. Monstera adansoni is distinguished from M. deliciosa by having longer, tapering leaves, as well as having completely enclosed leaf holes. Monstera deliciosa leaf holes eventually grow towards the edge and open up as they mature.
Part of Araceae, the Aroid Family, they are one of the few aroids that produces edible fruit, particularly, Monstera deliciosa, though they rarely flower or produce edible fruit indoors. Monsteras, like many aroids, were made known formally to the botanical world during the early 20th century, although they had been known for much longer by the indigenous peoples of Central America.
Part of Araceae, the Aroid Family, they are one of the few aroids that produces edible fruit, particularly, Monstera deliciosa, though they rarely flower or produce edible fruit indoors. Monsteras, like many aroids, were made known formally to the botanical world during the early 20th century, although they had been known for much longer by the indigenous peoples of Central America.
Sunlight
Thrives in bright to medium indirect light. Not suited for intense, direct sun but can be acclimated to withstand it.
Water
Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light. Pro tip: Monsteras can benefit from filtered water or water left out overnight before using.
Humidity
Normal room humidity will do, but prefers humid conditions if possible. Consider incorporating a fine-mist mister or humidifier to boost humidity level indoors.
Thrives in bright to medium indirect light. Not suited for intense, direct sun but can be acclimated to withstand it.
Water
Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light. Pro tip: Monsteras can benefit from filtered water or water left out overnight before using.
Humidity
Normal room humidity will do, but prefers humid conditions if possible. Consider incorporating a fine-mist mister or humidifier to boost humidity level indoors.
Temperature
Most houseplants prefer temps in the 65°F-85°F range (18°C-30°C). It’s best not to let it go below 60°F (15°C).
Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix. Mix in ingredients such as perlite or lava rocks to increase soil aeration as need.
Common Problems
The Monstera is an easy-going plant and is generally pest-free. Treat pests as soon as they appear with weekly sprays of a natural pesticide like neem oil and regular wipe-downs of the plant.
SYMPTOM: Leaves turning brown and crispy at the edges CAUSE: Thirsty plant, underwatered or high salt build up
SYMPTOM: Wilting plant, dry potting mix CAUSE: Underwatered or pot-bound
SYMPTOM: Yellowing leaves or black stems, wet potting mix CAUSE: Overwatered
Most houseplants prefer temps in the 65°F-85°F range (18°C-30°C). It’s best not to let it go below 60°F (15°C).
Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix. Mix in ingredients such as perlite or lava rocks to increase soil aeration as need.
Common Problems
The Monstera is an easy-going plant and is generally pest-free. Treat pests as soon as they appear with weekly sprays of a natural pesticide like neem oil and regular wipe-downs of the plant.
SYMPTOM: Leaves turning brown and crispy at the edges CAUSE: Thirsty plant, underwatered or high salt build up
SYMPTOM: Wilting plant, dry potting mix CAUSE: Underwatered or pot-bound
SYMPTOM: Yellowing leaves or black stems, wet potting mix CAUSE: Overwatered
Precautions:
Monsteras can be irritating to cats, dogs, and humans if foliage consumed. Best practice is always to keep houseplants out of reach of small children and pets.
Wipe off any dust from your Monsteras leaves
You’ll notice as time goes on that dust will build up on your plant’s leaves. With this dust build-up, it’s hard for the plant to get the sunlight it needs to grow.
When you notice this build, try taking a soft wet cloth or a damp paper towel and gently wipe off the dust from each leaf. Take care not to do this too fast or too harsh as damage to the leaves will not grow back.
When you notice this build, try taking a soft wet cloth or a damp paper towel and gently wipe off the dust from each leaf. Take care not to do this too fast or too harsh as damage to the leaves will not grow back.
