We are back with another statement-making plant that will liven up your indoors and outdoors both - Monstera Deliciosa! Commonly called Swiss Cheese Plant, Fruit Salad Plant or Monstera, these tropical vines and shrubs are native to the tropical rainforests of Central America.
Not only are these plants aesthetic, but also easy to care for. It is a climbing, evergreen perennial vine featuring large heart-shaped leathery leaves making it among the top choice in ornamental plants.
So, don’t wait to transform your space with the lush, green aesthetics of Monster Plant. Let’s know how to grow these widely popular plants at home:
Sun Exposure
To maintain optimal growth, Monstera plants require 5-8 hours of dappled (sunlight filtered by trees) or filtered light in their natural habitat. In indoor settings, these plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Here’s the perfect place to grow your Swiss Cheese plant: an east, south, or west-facing window.
They have tolerance for direct light to some extent, but too much direct light can result in damage. The signs of damage from direct sunlight can present in signs like browning or yellowing of leaves. Additionally, crispy patches or scorched leaves are signs of plant damage from too much bright light. On the contrary, low light will cause stunted growth of these plants.
Soil
When it comes to soil type, Monstera Deliciosa plants don’t like it too wet or too dry, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7. That means the best soil for these plants is well-draining, but moisture-retaining slightly acidic or neutral soil.
Perlite (facilitates drainage), coarse sand (aids drainage), and peat moss (retains moisture) make the best combination for the perfect soil type for growth. Another alternative is to mix houseplant oil, shredded bark, and perlite in a ratio of 3:2:1.
Watering
Now comes a crucial question: “How often should you water Monstera plants?”
Swiss Cheese plants like regular watering, but too much moisture can be hazardous to your plant. It is recommended to water your plants every week, but water if the top soil layers feel dry. If the topsoil (2-4 inches) is dry, water the plant until the water reaches the drainage hole of the pot.
The frequency of watering will also depend on different seasons. In summer, the plant typically demands watering once a week whereas during the cold months, you can reduce it to 2-3 weeks.
Toxicity
Fertilization
Fertilising the Monstera becomes crucial for the ideal growth of your indoor plants, including Monstera. Monstera Deliciosa plants grow rapidly, making regular fertilization crucial. During the growing season (i.e., spring and summer), you must fertilize biweekly or once a month. In its dormancy period (i.e. winter and fall), you can skip fertilizing.
Note: While it is generally recommended that fertilization can be skipped, if you see signs of growth, you must add fertilizers for plant growth.
Pruning
Growing Monstera plants will need regular trimming to keep them in shape and size. The right time for pruning your indoor Monstera is when they show noticeable growth, which is during the summer and spring. With damaged, dried, or infected leaves, the plant is susceptible to pests and infections.
Start with removing leaves that are dead or damaged and broken vines. When pruning, make quick and firm cuts to avoid any tearing or crushing. It is important to use tools of stainless steel and free from rust.
Wrap Up
With just a little effort, you can easily grow Monstera Deliciosa plants and beautify your home space. By providing the right conditions, including sun exposure, soil pH & type, moisture, and fertilization, this houseplant is easy to care for. So, wait no more and level up your interiors with a Swiss Cheese plant.
For all the plant-savvy people, we at BudsNBlush, bring high-quality plants. Check out our store and buy plants that are a versatile addition to your indoors and outdoors.
