Monstera / Swiss Cheese Plant / Split-Leaf Philodendron
Monstera deliciosa
description
Monstera is a large climbing aroid famous for mature leaves with splits and holes.
benefits
- Fast-growing
- Suitable for containers
warnings
- Toxic to cats
- Toxic to dogs
How to care for Monstera
sunlight
In tropical forests, Monstera climbs beneath the canopy, receiving bright light filtered through leaves. Give it a bright spot out of harsh midday sun to encourage larger, more deeply split leaves.
Bright indirect light
Place near an east-facing window, or a few feet back from a bright south or west window. Gentle morning sun is usually fine, but diffuse stronger sun with a sheer curtain.
Medium light - tolerated
Green forms can manage medium light, but growth will be slower and new leaves may stay smaller or develop fewer splits. Variegated plants need brighter indirect light to maintain growth.
watering
Spring and summer
In bright, warm conditions, this is often about every 7-10 days. Check below the surface before watering: the upper soil should feel dry, while deeper soil should be only lightly moist.
Autumn and winter
With lower light and slower growth, water roughly every 2-3 weeks. Wait for more of the pot to dry, and use the pot's lighter weight as a second check.
humidity
Preferred humidity
Monstera comes from humid tropical forests, but adapts well to most homes. Around 40-60% is usually comfortable; aim closer to 50-70% for larger, healthier leaves and smoother new growth.
Air is likely too dry if leaf edges turn crisp or brown, new leaves stick while unfurling, or growth slows despite good light and watering. Keep it away from radiators, heating vents, and strong air conditioning.
- Run a humidifier during dry heated periods, especially if humidity falls below about 40%.
- Place plants together to create a slightly more humid pocket of air.
- Do not rely on misting alone - its effect is brief and wet leaves can encourage leaf spotting.
temperature
Preferred temperature
Winter minimum
Monstera deliciosa comes from warm, humid tropical forests, so it grows best in steady indoor warmth. Keep it above 15°C (60°F), and avoid prolonged heat above 30°C (86°F), especially in dry air.
nutrition
March - September
Feed about once a month while your Monstera is making new leaves, using a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half the label strength. Stop feeding in autumn and winter unless it is still growing steadily in bright, warm conditions.
Nitrogen
Nitrogen supports the large green leaves and climbing growth Monsteras are known for. A balanced houseplant fertilizer supplies enough when used lightly and regularly.
Magnesium
Magnesium helps leaves stay green. Most complete fertilizers include it, so extra supplements are rarely needed unless a deficiency has been confirmed.
soil
Chunky, airy, moisture-holding soil
Monstera roots need air as well as steady moisture, so use a loose mix that drains freely without drying out immediately. Combine indoor potting mix with orchid bark, perlite or pumice, and a little coco coir if the mix feels too coarse.
pH 5,5 - 6,5
This is slightly acidic, which helps Monstera take up nutrients well. Most quality houseplant or aroid mixes fall close to this range, so there is usually no need to adjust pH unless you use very alkaline tap water or make your own mix.