The fiddle-leaf fig has had its time in the sun. It’s now time for another plant to shine: the monstera deliciosa. Also known as Swiss cheese plant, it’s the ‘it’ plant taking over Pinterest feeds.
If you’ve managed to keep your fiddle-leaf alive, then looking after a monstera plant will be a breeze, as it is easy to grow and relatively low-maintenance once established.
“A native to the jungles of Southern Mexico and Guatemala, the Monstera is a very easy houseplant that needs space to grow,” says Gisele Zanier, founder of Beyond Sunflowers tells Better Homes and Gardens.
How often should I water my monstera plant?
Monstera plants prefer a warm climate away from direct sunlight. When it comes to watering, Gisele says. “Let the top 4cm of soil dry out between watering as over watering may lead to root rot, signs of this are yellowing or wilting leaves. For best results, monsteras should enjoy conditions that are fairly moist, so avoid artificial heating and cooling. When planted in containers, monsteras also require monthly feeding in spring and summer.”
What to do with monstera’s aerial roots
If your monstera produces aerial roots, manoeuvre them towards water.
“Plants will do better if the aerial roots that grow from the main stem can be directed into a container of water from which supplies will be drawn for the plant, thus reducing the need for too frequent watering of the mixture in the pot, these roots can be also directed into the potting mixture when re-potting,” Gisele explains.
How to keep a monstera plant pest-free
Despite being easy to grow, monstera’s are prone to mealybugs.
“Cleaning the leaves will also help keep pests under control as they are prone to mealybugs on the undersides of the leaves. It’s also ideal to give them the occasional misting to help increase humidity,” says Gisele.
How to re-pot a monstera plant
When it comes to time to move your plant to a larger pot, “a mix comprised of equal parts potting mixture and sphagnum moss will do the job.”
Giselle adds: “Also once the plant reaches heights of 80cm tall it will need the support of a moss pole or bamboo cane as its natural tendency is to grow up.”
How to care for your monstera plant
Aspect
Bright indirect light. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves.
Climate
Monstera plants prefer warm temperate climates. Plant outside in partial shade. They also adapt well to being an indoor plant – unless it’s very cold.
Soil
Monstera plants will happily grow in deep, well-draining humus-rich soil.
Water
They like to be moist but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again.
Fertiliser
Monstera plants benefit from the regular application of a controlled-release fertiliser during the growing season.
Pruning
Your monstera plant will most likely need occasional pruning to keep it under control, especially if it’s growing indoors. This is best done in the spring before the growing season.
How do I encourage my monstera plant to grow up?
Monstera plants can be trained to grow upward. Gently guide aerial roots towards a moss pole, or support structure to attach themselves to.
How to get the monstera plant to grow more leaves
Monstera is a fast-growing plant, so the better care you give it the more leaves it will grow. FInding the right balance of light is secret to thriving monstera leaves.
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