Fill with soil around the roots. If its aerial roots get unruly you can trim them, but it's best to just tuck them back into the pot. Watering: Only water your monstera when its soil is dry, this should be once per week. By: Gloria Ballard. Cut a small notch about one third of the stem's width, just below that root. Caring for the Monstera Deliciosa is surprisingly easy because it prefers to be left alone. Monstera Deliciosa Care guide Positioning. Wrap where the leaf joins the stem in a one-inch layer of sphagnum moss. Monstera are species of evergreen tropical vines/shrubs that are native to Central America. Apply a balanced fertilizer three or four times a year and the plant may grow 10 feet tall or more. Monstera deliciosa is considered a low-maintenance plant when it comes to pruning needs. The common name, Swiss cheese plant, gives a better description of this striking houseplant with holes and deep cuts in its massive leaves. This evergreen prefers bright, indirect sunlight in temperatures that remain consistently between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. But, as the temperature drops, it will struggle even more with its water intake. Ingestion will only cause mouth and stomach irritation, and at worst, vomiting. The Monstera Deliciosa is sensitive to overwatering at the best of times. The Monstera Deliciosa Care guidelines come down to the following: Placement: monsteras will thrive where they can get a good amount of indirect bright light. PRO TIP: Monsteras are climbing plants as well as love to rise upright surfaces. Hoya Heart Plant ... Monstera Learn how to care for most varieties of Monstera! This climbing evergreen is a popular easy-to-grow houseplant and a favorite of many interior designers for both residential and commercial spaces. Introducing "One Thing": A New Video Series, The Spruce Gardening & Plant Care Review Board, The Spruce Renovations and Repair Review Board. Pruning Monstera Deliciosa. Monsteras are epiphytic just like orchids, bromeliads & all its relatives listed above. If the soil is naturally salty in your region, move it to the patio or indoors. When planting outdoors, establish in part-shade in well-draining soil. Too much direct light in warmer months may burn the foliage. Monstera Care has recently experienced an immense increase in interest. Our latest shed is also a pavilion—and you can build it, too! You can prop these roots onto an indoor plant support to help your Monstera grow tall and bushy. Monstera likes a humid room, well-drained soil and a balance between sun and shade. Monsteras are very recognizable plants with big and beautiful leaves. You’ll also hear it called split-leaf philodendron. They get hecking HUGE in … Indoor Care Choose a location with bright, indirect sunlight for your split-leaf philodendron in temperatures that consistently stay between 70 to 75 degrees. Monstera (nicknamed Swiss cheese plant because of the holes in its leaves) is a tropical plant from the Araceae family that is happiest as a houseplant in colder climates. “You’ll have a piece of the exact same plant, only smaller,” she says. If your Monstera is too large to move, try placing pebbles or terra-cotta planter feet under the pot to keep it out of standing water. Is Monstera Toxic? Common pests include mealybugs, aphids, thrips, scale and spider mites. Water when the top quarter-to-third of the soil feels dry to the touch. Finally, cut the stem and establish the young plant in soil. Swiss cheese plant also needs moderately moist soil and high humidity. It is also called Swiss cheese plant due to the perforated leaves, which can grow up to three feet long and are significantly larger than the related petite variety M. adansonii. It has beautiful large green leaves that feature slits and fenestrations as it matures and not only is it a hardy, easy to care for plant, it also grows fruit! Before we talk about how to care for a monstera, one of the hottest newcomers on the houseplant scene, let’s discuss a little about this fabulous plant. Monstera deliciosa: The name sounds like something out of Harry Potter’s spellbook. However, make sure you have plenty of room for this unassuming green beauty -- it will grow and grow some more -- and in a few years, you will be thinking, “How did you get taller than I am?” However, Monstera care guides cannot keep up with this increased interest. The ASPCA cautions that this plant is toxic to cats and dogs. Check the “What is Monstera Borsigiana” section of this care guide for more information. When planting outdoors, establish in part-shade in well-draining soil. Near but not in a window is good. Or place the cut stem in damp potting medium and keep it well watered to start a new plant. Stems and leaves respond well to trimming. Unlike some other houseplants, their roots do not damage surfaces. Indoors, the plant grows about two feet high, its leathery, glossy, characteristic split and heart-shaped leaves coming from intricate aerial roots, which can be used for ropes and basket making. mobile app users. Using the right pot and potting medium for your Monstera will make it easier to maintain the proper soil moisture. The most common, Monstera deliciosa, is named so because of the edible fruit the plant produces, though they rarely flower indoors. Additional Outdoor Care Tips As the Monstera Deliciosa is hardy in USDA zones 10 through 12, it will thrive year-round in warm, humid weather. Monstera plant care is relatively low maintenance. Monsteras are famous for their natural leaf-holes, and has led to the rise of its nickname, Swiss Cheese Plant. Water only occasionally in fall and winter. Is Monstera Borsigiana a … While the name Monstera is believed to refer to the abnormally perforated leaves, your Monstera can also get monstrously large for a houseplant. In the rainforest, these slits are used to help withstand the heavy winds and rainfall. If needed or desired, use a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season for indoor plants. Wiping dust or debris with a damp sponge or paper towel will keep the plant clean and avoidant of pests. And some types are sold on eBay for immense prices. Still, keep away from pets and children. Your Monstera may survive in less light, but the leaves might not develop those cool holes and it won’t grow as large. The soil pH should be in the range of around 5.5–7 for strong growth; this can be easily monitored with a pH kit. Monstera will grow in most garden soils, but prefers a moist, humus-rich but well-drained soil. She has also developed content for clients in a range of industries, from tech to the green industry. A tropical plant native to Central America, the monstera species skyrocketed to … If your Monstera has what looks like cords pointing down from the stems, those are aerial roots. If your Monstera plant is getting too large for your space, Steinkopf suggests moving it to a spot with a little less light to slow its growth. If any are found on the foliage, spray the plant with a direct water stream. Set the roots into the container. I was lucky enough to witness a Monstera Deliciosa grows from a seed. This plant has its roots in the soil, but it also contains some along the stem. Sienna Mae Heath is The Quarantined Gardener: Leading the Lehigh Valley to Victory Gardens in 2020. While Monsteras are related to Philodendron, they are not the same. This will also increase humidity as the water evaporates from the saucer. These can be sprayed with an insecticidal soap or treated with horticultural oil. Some sources say that the names are actually two ways of calling one plant, while others say that Monstera Borsigiana is a cultivar of Monstera Deliciosa. But if you moved your growing Monstera to a larger pot, Lisa Eldred Steinkopf, who writes as The Houseplant Guru, suggests sticking a wooden dowel down to the bottom to see if it comes out damp. Outdoors, it is suitable for light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with acid or neutral pH. When established in a container, it requires peat-based potting media. Their main purpose is to help support your Monstera as it climbs. For some general repotting tips, and knowing when to repot your plant, check out my … Firmly surround the stake with soil and use plant ties to attach the stem to the stake. Monstera Deliciosa is probably one of the most popular house plants. Wait to water your Monstera until the top third of the soil is dry — but don’t let the soil dry out completely. She also recommends propagation if your Monstera has outgrown its space but you can’t bear to part with it. Monstera means monster, and deliciosa means delicious, which is quite pleasing. Outdoors, the Monstera deliciosa can grow in the full shade of deep woodlands and semi-shade of light woodlands. Monstera deliciosa is a climber in its natural habitat, using its aerial roots to cling to large trees, so you should provide it with moss-covered support sticks or a trellis. Still, set indoor plants outside at least once a year in direct sunlight to encourage lush growth. Monstera deliciosa likes moderate indoor temperatures of 60 to 85 degrees. Consuming the leaves and other parts of the plant may cause severe mouth burning, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. First, find a leaf that is growing out of a stem and has a short aerial root below it. Monstera deliciosa is a Swiss cheese plant and it’s a species of flowering plants that originate from the tropical forests of southern Mexico. Fruiting is not common in houseplants. To grow them tall they will have to be trained, which is fairly easy when using a moss stick. Monstera deliciosa is toxic to pets and humans, but don’t worry, it’s not fatal. Follow your usual watering routine during these cold months but pay more attention to the drainage. The leaves of Monstera adansonii are somewhat smaller, ... How to Care for Monstera, the Swiss Cheese Plant Oct 27, 2020. The name deliciosa comes from the fruit being known as tasting delicious. Of all the house plants, monstera deliciosa might just be the most stunning. Ensure its pot has adequate drainage holes so the roots won’t be submerged in water. And use a houseplant potting mix containing peat moss to help retain moisture without getting too soggy. The Monstera deliciosa is also known as the swiss cheese plant or hurricane plant. Split-leaf philodendron, Swiss cheese plant, Windowleaf, Ceriman, Three feet tall/long, spaced two to three feet wide, Bright indirect sunlight, partially shaded, How to Grow Monstera Deliciosa in Containers, How to Make a Kokedama—The Japanese Art of the Moss Ball, How to Grow Climbing Sea Onion Plants (Bowiea volubilis), How to Grow and Care for the Autograph Tree. As they're tropical plants, they can be tough to take care of if you live in a colder climate, but … Steinkopf then wraps the cut in damp sphagnum moss covered with plastic wrap to keep it moist until roots form. Lovely. To help your Monstera reach its full potential, Steinkopf recommends using a water-soluble houseplant fertilizer diluted to one-third to one-half strength once a month. Monstera deliciosa care is very much a labor of love amongst gardening enthusiasts, due to its stunning appearance, easy maintenance, and tolerability of various conditions. It’s now time for a new plant to shine: the Monstera deliciosa, or Swiss cheese plant is the new "It" plant taking over Instagram feeds.. To increase humidity indoors, mist the foliage using a spray bottle of demineralized water or rainwater. Get it free when you sign up for our newsletter. Just water them when their soil is dry to the touch, about once a week, and give them plenty of sunshine. I have two tiny tiny roots! Martin holds off on fertilizing between Thanksgiving and March, when lower light levels create a natural rest period for your plant. Every two years or so, the Monstera deliciosa will likely outgrow its pot. Monstera Deliciosa Care Exposure. It looks like I'm getting a bit of root … Displaying and growing: These look fantastic in large rooms, hallways, within offices and anywhere else that can cater for their size and caring needs. What Are Aerial Roots and What Are They For? The plant has been rooting in water since 1 FEB. A premium standard potting mix should always used for potting up monstera into pots and containers indoors. “It shouldn’t take long,” she says, “maybe a month or so.” Plant your new Monstera in the same type of potting soil as the original plant. Re-pot every two years into a larger container to maintain growth. Fun fact: Those holes are technically called fenestration, also used in reference to windows — which is probably why it’s also called window leaf plant. Give the plant regular waterings during the growing season. Preventing Pests and Other Problems in Monstera, We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), houseplant potting mix containing peat moss, refer to the abnormally perforated leaves, plant is getting too large for your space, Discover the Truth About Common Hummingbird Myths, Plant Propagation: How to Multiply Your Plants for Free, Do Not Sell My Personal Information – CA Residents. She enjoys photography, often supplying her own images for editorial use, and hikes and does yoga in her spare time. How to care for your Monstera Use these instructions to care for a Monstera. Taking care of your monstera is sure to bring you great deals of compliments as well as a happy plant! Starting with a stem with a leaf and an aerial root, she cuts the stem about halfway through, a few inches below the aerial root. Spray the moss with water to increase moisture and wrap it in plastic. Plant in a peaty, well-draining soil in a pot with drainage holes. Because light is blocked out by taller trees in the split leaf Philodendron’s natural habitat, this plant is not used to receiving direct sunlight. However the most popular method of propagating M. deliciosa is air-layering, for which you'll need sharp and clean pruning shears, floral or sphagnum moss, a plastic bag, and twist ties. Cuttings can be used to start new plants. Steinkopf says you can also try placing a cut stem in clean, unchlorinated water and changing the water frequently until roots form. At that size they bear fruit, with a flavor described as a mix of banana and pineapple, that gives them the “deliciosa” part of their name. Native to the rainforests of Central America, the Monstera deliciosa plant is also known as the "tropical split-leaf philodendron." Minor skin irritation from just handling the plant, is possible, though quite rare, making the Monstera deliciosa a beloved, versatile houseplant in many parts of the world. Ensure the moss remains moist until roots develop. Monstera plants are discussed on Facebook and showed off on Instagram. 3. How to Propagate a Monstera Plant. Use twist ties to secure it. She has been a University of Georgia Master Gardener Extension Volunteer since 2002 and earned the Georgia Certified Plant Professional certification in 2017. They’ll tolerate low light but will show little if any growth. This guide will tell you how to water a Monstera; its light, temperature, humidity preferences and any additional care … Known for their "Swiss cheese" look, both Monstera deliciosa (this iteration has leaves that split at the edges) and Monstera adansonii (which has holes in the leaf centers) are delightfully low-maintenance. Standard liquid plant fertilizer can be applied about once a month … As the Monstera Deliciosa is hardy in USDA zones 10 through 12, it will thrive year-round in warm, humid weather. They're not the type of roots that damage walls or surfaces. Whatever you call it, Monstera plants were the most sought-after houseplant in 2019 among GrowIt! If you've managed to keep your fiddle-leaf alive, then looking after a Monstera will be a breeze as it possesses all the qualities of a good houseplant. Even so, it thrives most in well-drained, moderately moist soil. I have a lovely top cutting of a Variegated Monstera Albo Borsigiana. Water until it runs out the bottom, then empty the saucer to avoid root rot. They prefer bright, natural light—what I would call a moderate exposure. The aerial roots need something to hang on to, so a wooden or moss covered stake set into the middle of the pot will provide the extra support. She is a lifelong gardener, originally from central New Jersey but now digging in Georgia clay. Experts at the University of Georgia Extension Service say, “Of all of the factors affecting plant growth in interiors, adequate light is by far the most important.” Monstera deliciosa likes bright but indirect light, such as near an east- or west-facing window. Two different species of Monstera are cultivated as houseplants - Monstera deliciosa and Monstera adansonii. Transplant into a pot a few inches wider and deeper. If intended as a houseplant, choose a deep pot with many drainage holes. The fiddle-leaf fig has had its time in the sun. The only pruning required is to maintain its size or to remove dead or damaged foliage, snipping the entire leaf and attached stem back to the plant’s main or central stem.. Monstera Deliciosa is an epiphyte, meaning they attach their roots to tree trunks and grow up them towards the light. We recommend our users to update the browser. Monstera are species of evergreen tropical vines/shrubs that are native to Central America. Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links. A delicious monster. It prefers high humidity, but it will adapt fine to dry indoor conditions. Fill the bottom third with peaty potting soil and establish a stake gently for the stem to climb on. The plant needs warm interior temperatures of at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18 C.) or warmer. Trim aerial roots if they get too unruly for the space, though tucking them back into the pot is preferred. The soil will need to dry out slightly in between. Repotting. I've been cleaning, rinsing and replacing the water every week. This could be a window or a balcony. If the soil is naturally salty in your region, move it to the patio or indoors. Photo of this monstera is made by roosanur on Instagram. How to care for a Monstera. Potting mix. Make sure your pot has at least one drainage hole. Whether you are gifted with a green thumb or not, our guide will help you grow the perfect houseplants. Martin says monsteras are “very forgiving plants” and “generally care-free.” But keep an eye out for common indoor plant pests like aphids, thrips and scale. Leaves can also be washed with insecticidal soap. I documented the stages to show you how it's done and also about how long it takes. Thank you to my subscriber who requested this video, I really hope these tips help you make your monstera adansonii thrive in your space. Tips for Watering Monstera Deliciosa Wait to water your Monstera until the top third of the soil is dry — but don’t let the soil dry out completely. A regional director of GardenComm, the Association of Garden Communicators, Helen is a contributor to magazines including Country Gardens, Birds and Blooms, Georgia Magazine, Nursery Management, State-by-State Gardening, and Atlanta Parent. Monstera Deliciosa is an epiphyte with aerial roots that climb onto tree barks. Learn how to care for most varieties of Monstera! NYC & NJ Delivery Only Large Monstera From $175 More Options. Tovah Martin, houseplant expert and author (The Indestructible Houseplant), says this method or a room humidifier is far more effective than misting the leaves. Monstera deliciosa plants are a treasure to have in your house, with very easy care guidelines also. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. “Use something like a toothpick or golf tee to hold the cut open,” she says. Helen Newling Lawson is a published garden writer and freelance content marketing professional. Monstera Deliciosa plants are frequently mistaken for Philodendron Bipinnatifidum, as both have similar characteristics when it comes to foliage and growing habits. Finding the Right Light for Your Monstera, The Best Pots and Potting Soil for Monstera. In your home, they will likely max out at six to eight feet and will possibly flower, but fruiting indoors is rare. If you want more monsteras, good news! Monstera deliciosa light and temperature Split leaf Philodendron care: light. In the wild, they are a climbing vine that can reach 60 feet tall. If these furry friends live in your home, consider an animal-friendly houseplant instead. If the pot is small, you can test for dryness by sticking your finger in the soil. If you want to share your Monstera with friends, Steinkopf says you can propagate it with air layering, a technique she also uses for woody plants like fiddle-leaf figs. If the pot is small, you can test for dryness by sticking your finger in the soil. Ripe fruits are edible but according to the North Caroline State University Extension Services, fruits may cause some people allergies. Hardy in USDA Zones 10 through 12, Monstera deliciosa thrives in high humidity, produces tan-cream flowers pollinated by bees and bears edible juicy fruit with the combined flavor of pineapple and banana. She plants food and flowers in her native Zone 6B. Monstera Deliciosa From $59 More Options Faux Monstera $200 More Options.