Plant Care: MONSTERA
Botanical Classification: Monstera deliciosa
Monsteras boast broad, striking leaves with a variation of holes. Happy in bright, indirect light but also tolerant of fluorescent lights, this plant is easy going and a joy to care for. These beauties are vining plants that thrive climbing up on a stake or trellis, or overhanging their planter.
About the Monstera
Monsteras are evergreen tropical plants that grow year-round and make wonderful house plants, as they can handle high or low-light situations.
Monstera translates to ‘strange’ in Latin - this name came from their distinguishable leaves.
Part of the aroid family, these plants originate in South America and grow on the rainforest floor.
Monstera holes are called fenestrations. In the wild, these holes allow for water to fall on the leaves and flow-through without damaging the leaf.
It is theorized that monsteras create their fenestrations to capture maximum sunlight while decreasing overall cellular mass. Meaning they have adapted to be efficient for their natural environment.
More holes = healthier the plant
More sun = more holes. But be careful not to burn! This means finding the ideal balance.
How to Care for Your Monstera
LIGHT
Your Monstera can tolerate low light, but thrives in bright spots. More sunlight encourages more holes developing in the leaves. However, you should avoid bright, direct sunlight as the leaves may burn.
WATER
Water your Monstera evenly when the top half of the soil is dry. This is usually once per week.
HUMIDITY
Monsteras are easy-going plants that thrive in nearly any indoor environment. Because Monsteras are tropical plants, they do enjoy a misting from time to time (once weekly at the most). Mist in the morning so the leaves have time to dry throughout the day as the sunlight hits the leaves.
FOOD
Feed your plants with organic fertilizer once per month March - August. A small amount of plant food is key to encouraging growth and root strength. Do not fertilize in the winter months, this is the time for your Monstera to rest with the cooler season.
ADDITIONAL CARE
The Monstera’s broad leaves can collect dust. Gently remove all dust with damp cloth, then dry and shine with a clean cloth. This process keeps your leaves clean, healthy and ready to absorb the sunlight.
TOXICITY
Monstera leaves are mildly toxic to humans, and toxic to both dogs and cats.
TIPS
Leaves can get dusty, so make sure to wipe down weekly! This will also help to mitigate any pest problems.
These tropical plants love humidity - give their leaves a weekly mist for extra love!
Common Problems for Monsteras
SYMPTOM: Leaves turning brown and crispy at the edges
CAUSE: Thirsty plant, underwatered or high salt build up
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SYMPTOM: Wilting plant, dry potting mix
CAUSE: Underwatered or pot-bound
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SYMPTOM: Yellowing leaves or black stems, wet potting mix
CAUSE: Overwatered
