Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, has a super distinctive silhouette with heart-shaped, glossy leaves and a voluminous look. And for a one-of-a-kind touch, the leaves on the grow natural holes or slats, giving the plant its signature nickname.
Plus, it's super easy to grow. Sounds too good to be true, right? We're serious when we say that it's almost a plant-and-forget kind of grower. But when it comes to the Monstera, it's important to keep a few care tips in mind...check out our pointers for the Swiss Cheese Plant below!
Monstera Deliciosa Care
First, select an area with bright, indirect light for your Monstera. Oftentimes, you may not even have to repot your plant right away - just simply choose your locale and let it grow!
If you do want to repot your Monstera, select a container that's about twice the size of your plant's shipped container and ensure it has drainage holes. Use organic soil mix and place your plant in its pot. As it grows, you may need to use a small wooden stake to provide extra support since the Monstera tends to grow pretty full and lush.
Back to lighting needs, though - you may be wondering what counts as bright, indirect light. Luckily, we're here to help!
Some sunlight may be too intense from west-facing or south-facing windows, but there's a simple fix. To accommodate Monsteras and other plants that prefer indirect light, cover your windows with a shade or lightweight curtain during hot, sunny afternoons.
Alternatively, windows with eastern exposure provide bright, indirect light through the majority of the year. When more light comes in during summer, just move your Monsteras a few feet away from the window or cover the window with a sheer curtain.
How to Care for Monstera
The Monstera doesn't require a lot of upkeep, but if you want it to grow above and beyond, a regular watering schedule is important.
If you're not sure when to water your Swiss Cheese Plant, check the surrounding soil with your finger, down to about 1 or 2 inches. If the soil is dry here, it's time to water your tree.
When you do water your Monstera, allow the water to drain completely from the holes at the bottom of your pot. You should also reduce watering through the winter, when it gets less sunlight, to prevent overwatering.
We also recommend misting your Monstera to keep the humidity up. After all, it's a rainforest native and does love that little bit of extra moisture!
Fertilizing the Monstera
Feed your Monstera with a shot of a water-soluble, general-purpose fertilizer every two months from spring to fall - and that's it!
Monstera Cutting & More
So, it really couldn't be easier to maintain your Monstera. But we have a few more tips to ensure it grows big and strong:
- Pinch off any new growing tips at the maximum height you want for your Monstera. This will include any excessive growth that's producing few leaves.
- Your Monstera will benefit from repotting every few years or so. You'll know when to repot if your plant looks slightly wilted despite getting enough water - this means there are too many roots in your pot, which prevent the soil from taking in enough moisture.
- Your Monstera rarely suffers from disease or pests, but check it occasionally for various fungi and wipe any dust from its leaves.
Easy, effortlessly lush, and totally trend: Check! It's no wonder why the Monstera is a fan favorite. See what the hype's about here!
