Monstera are species of evergreen tropical plant native to Central America; one of the easiest houseplants to grow. The Monstera’s famous leaf-holes are called fenestrations which given their nickname, Swiss Cheese Plant and are theorized to maximize sun capture on the forest floor.

More About Monstera

Monstera deliciosa are part of the Aroid Family, one of the few aroids that produces edible fruit, though they rarely flower or produce edible fruit when grown indoors.

Sunlight and Water

The evergreen plant thrives in bright to medium indirect light; preferably 3-6 hours of morning sun. Avoid intense and direct sun as it will scorch the healthy green foliage in no time.

Water thoroughly and let drain completely every 1-2 weeks, always allow soil to dry out between waterings to avoid root rot. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light conditions.

Temperature and Humidity

Monstera Deliciosa prefers temperatures in the 18°C-30°C range. It’s best not to let it go below 15°C or over 32°C.

This easy-to-grow plant will thrive in normal room humidity, but prefers humid conditions if possible. Having a humidifier in the room will boost the growth and greatly benefit the plant.

Soil and Fertilizer

Use a well-draining aerated potting mix. Potting mix with ingredients such as perlite or lava rocks will increase soil aeration, which is recommended for this evergreen tropical plant.

Apply couple tablespoons of balanced pellet fertilizer every 2-3 months or whenever there’s new growth, always water thoroughly and let drain completely refer to as flushing the soil to avoid excess salt build-up.

Common Problems

The Monstera is an easy-to-care plant and is generally pest-free. Treat pests as soon as they appear with biweekly sprays of a natural pesticide and regularly wipe down the plant with damp cloth to give it a natural shine as well as allowing for effective photosynthesis.

Symptom: Leaves turning brown and crispy at the edges
Cause: Thirsty plant, underwatered or high salt build up.

Solution: Water thoroughly to saturate all part of soil and let drain completely.

Symptom: Wilting plant, dry potting mix
Cause: Underwatered or root-bound.

Solution: Keep up with watering while letting soil dry in between waterings, check underneath the pot for excessive roots, repot if root-bound.

Symptom: Yellowing leaves or black stems, wet potting mix
Cause: Overwatered or soggy soil cause by soil unable to drain.

Solution: Adjust watering schedule, use well-drained soil while allowing soil to dry off in between water. Simply poke your finger couple inches into the soil to check for moisture, water again only when dry to the touch.

Note: Monsteras can be irritating to cats, dogs, and humans if foliage consumed. Consider keeping houseplants out of reach of small children and pets.