Monstera deliciosa, also known as the split-leaf philodendron or Swiss cheese plant, is a popular tropical houseplant native to the rainforests of Central and South America. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and heart-shaped. As the leaves grow larger, they develop holes or splits, making them unique and attractive. In its natural environment, it can grow up to 70 feet tall, but indoors, it typically reaches a height of 6 to 8 feet. While the plant produces flowers and fruit in the wild, this is rare for houseplants. The leaves and stems of Monstera deliciosa contain calcium oxalate, which is toxic to humans and pets. Ingestion can cause irritation, pain, and vomiting in the mouth, throat, and stomach. Therefore, it should be kept out of reach of children and pets.

Monstera Deliciosa Care 

Monstera deliciosa is extremely popular among plant lovers for its attractive, beautiful leaves. This plant requires low maintenance when grown at home and is generally resistant to pests and diseases. Therefore, it can be an excellent choice for both new plant owners and experienced gardeners. In its natural environment, the plant grows excessively, but when grown indoors, its size can be controlled according to the pot size, plant species, and available light. You can grow the plant at home with shaded light, well-drained soil, adequate water supply, high humidity, and a little care. 

Sunlight & Location

This tropical plant prefers ample indirect but bright light. Keep the plant away from direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. It should receive about 5-8 hours of indirect light each day. Place the Monstera deliciosa in front of a north or south-facing window to get the maximum amount of natural indirect sunlight. In winter or if it’s challenging to meet the light requirements based on the plant’s location, you can use a grow light. However, in the wild, this plant can thrive in deep forest shade and light woodland dappled shade.

Soil & Fertilizer

For planting Monstera deliciosa, use soil that is well-draining and evenly moist. You can use standard succulent soil and soil with acidic or neutral pH levels. To improve soil aeration and drainage, add perlite, coconut coir, peat moss, and vermiculite. A good mix could be three parts houseplant soil, two parts peat moss, and one part perlite.

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as one with a 20-20-20 rating. During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize every 4-6 weeks. Mix half a teaspoon of fertilizer in one gallon of water and use this mixture instead of regular watering. Pour the mixture onto the soil until it drains out of the bottom of the pot. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excess fertilizer can damage the plant’s roots and cause leaf drop.

Watering

Overwatering and underwatering can both negatively impact the growth of Monstera deliciosa. Overwatering can lead to waterlogged soil, causing root rot and leaf drop. On the other hand, if the soil dries out excessively, the roots can be damaged. Generally, watering Monstera deliciosa once a week is sufficient, but this can vary depending on weather and environmental conditions. Before watering, check the soil; water when the top part of the soil is dry and continue watering until the soil is thoroughly moist. 

Temperature & Humidity

Monstera deliciosa generally thrives indoors at temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). If temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), the plant may experience cold shock, causing its growth to halt. 

This plant also prefers high humidity, ideally around 60%. If your home’s humidity is low, you can increase it by using a humidifier. Additionally, regularly misting the plant’s leaves or placing a tray of water near the plant can help. As the water in the tray evaporates, it will boost the humidity around the plant.

Pests Control

When growing Monstera deliciosa indoors, it can be affected by pests such as mealybugs, aphids, thrips, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests typically reside on branches, leaves, and under the leaves, where they suck sap and create yellow spots on the foliage. If you notice these pests during plant inspection, you can remove them using the following methods:

1. Soap Water Spray: Apply a soap solution to the affected areas. Mix mild liquid soap with water and spray it on the infested spots. This helps to eliminate the pests without harming the plant.
2. Neem Oil: Use neem oil, a natural insecticide, to treat the infestation. Mix neem oil with water according to the instructions and spray it on the plant, covering all affected areas.
3. Rubbing Alcohol: For a more targeted approach, use a cotton ball or sponge soaked in rubbing alcohol to clean the affected areas. This method is effective for removing mealybugs and scale insects.

Types Of Monstera Deliciosa

Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss cheese plant, is a tropical plant native to the rainforests of Central America. It has around 50 species, several of which have become very popular for home cultivation. These plants are very beautiful, and each species has its own unique characteristics. With proper nutrition and minimal maintenance, these plants can be easily grown at home. Here are a few popular species of Monstera deliciosa:

Monstera Albo

Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Borsigiana’ is a special variety of the Monstera deliciosa plant. Monstera Albo has large, fenestrated (split) leaves. The leaves are green with white or cream-colored variegation, giving the plant a unique and attractive appearance. This is a climbing plant that grows rapidly both indoors and outdoors. Indoors, this plant can reach up to 10 feet in height and spread up to 3 feet. It grows slowly and thrives in bright, indirect light, humid, rich, well-draining soil, warm temperatures, and high humidity. Remember that it is toxic to pets.

Monstera Obliqua

Monstera obliqua ‘Peru’ is a unique Monstera species and one of the popular varieties within the Monstera family. Its leaves are typically slitted or fenestrated, but they are more irregular and unusual compared to other Monstera species. The edges of the leaves have cavities and tears, giving the plant a distinctive appearance. It is a climbing plant that can usually grow about 3-6 feet indoors. In an outdoor environment, it can grow longer, but it generally remains smaller indoors. Monstera obliqua thrives in medium indirect sunlight, well-draining soil, and high humidity. Like other Monstera species, Monstera obliqua is toxic to humans and pets.

Monstera Swiss Cheese

Monstera adansonii, commonly known as the “Swiss Cheese Plant,” is a popular climbing plant. Its leaves are small and round, and are notably fenestrated (hole-punctured). The leaves feature multiple cavities, giving the plant a “Swiss cheese” appearance. It is a climbing plant that can typically grow about 3-5 feet indoors. With proper care, it can grow even longer in outdoor environments. It thrives in bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, medium moisture, and high humidity.

Monstera Shingle 

Monstera dubia is a unique Monstera species known for its small, heart-shaped leaves that are smooth underneath and upright on top, with minimal fenestration. It starts as a crawler and later climbs as it matures. Indoors, it typically grows 3 to 6 feet long but can extend even further outdoors with proper care. The plant thrives in partial sunlight and moist, well-draining soil, requiring attentive care for optimal growth.

Pruning Monstera Deliciosa

Monstera deliciosa does not require regular pruning, but it is important to prune dead or diseased leaves and stems. If any leaves or stems die or become damaged, trim them with a sharp pruner. Additionally, if the plant becomes excessively large, you can cut back extra branches or leaves to control its size. After cutting, keep the open areas clean and provide adequate water to encourage new growth. Spring is the ideal time for pruning, but you can prune at any time if needed. Pruning enhances the plant’s attractiveness and helps it remain healthy and beautiful.

Propagation Monstera Deliciosa

There are generally two main methods used for propagating Monstera deliciosa: stem cutting and air layering. Both methods are highly effective and accessible for propagating new Monstera deliciosa plants.

Propagating With Stem Cutting

Stem cutting for Monstera deliciosa is a cost-effective propagation method, providing healthy new plants with established roots. It ensures genetic consistency, quick growth, and minimal impact on the parent plant. Follow these steps for stem cutting:

1. Preparation: Use clean and sharp scissors or a knife. Prepare a clean glass or container for the cuttings.

2. Taking the Cutting: Identify a healthy branch with at least one leaf and one or two nodes. Cut the branch to a length of 4-6 inches (10-15 cm).

3. Preparing the Cutting: Remove the lower part of the cutting where the node is, exposing about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm). Remove any small leaves or extra branches at the bottom to promote strong growth.

4. Rooting: Place the cutting in a glass or container of water, ensuring that the node is submerged. Regularly check the water level and replace it with clean water as needed.

5. Root Development: After a few weeks, new roots will start to grow from the node. When the roots are about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long, the cutting can be transferred to soil.

6. Transplanting to Soil: Prepare a potting mix with good drainage, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and compost. Place the cutting in the soil and lightly press the soil around it. Keep the new plant in bright, indirect light and maintain moderate humidity.

Propagating With Air Layering

The air layering process for Monstera deliciosa ensures a healthy start for new plants. This method encourages root formation on the parent plant, which increases the success rate of new plants and provides strong, well-established cuttings. Follow these steps for air layering:

1. Select the Cutting: Choose a healthy Monstera deliciosa plant and select a robust stem with at least one leaf and a node (the point where the leaf attaches to the stem).

2. Cut the Stem: Using a sharp, clean knife or scissors, make the cut about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) above the node. Ensure the cut is deep enough to damage the bark but does not sever the stem completely.

3. Prepare the Node: Wrap the node with some sphagnum moss, sponge, or coconut coir to maintain moisture and encourage root development.

4. Wrap the Cutting: Cover the cutting area with plastic wrap or a poly bag, ensuring it is tightly sealed to keep the moss moist and create a protective environment. Use tape if needed to secure the wrap.

5. Monitor Root Development: New roots should start to form within 4-6 weeks. Check periodically to ensure the roots are growing well.

6. Separate and Transfer: Once the new roots are 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long and stable, remove the plastic wrap and carefully separate the cutting from the original plant.

7. Potting: Transfer the cutting to a new pot with good drainage, using a soil mix such as a combination of peat moss, perlite, and compost.

8. Provide Optimal Conditions: Place the new plant in bright, indirect light and maintain moderate humidity. With proper care, the plant should thrive.

Potting And Repotting Monstera Deliciosa

To pot a Monstera deliciosa, first select a suitable pot with good drainage, such as one with holes at the bottom. Place some stones or gravel at the bottom of the pot to ensure proper water drainage. Next, prepare a mixture of potting soil, perlite, and coco coir, which is ideal for Monstera deliciosa. Pour some of the mixture into the pot, then place the Monstera plant on top. Spread the plant’s roots out and add more of the mixture around the plant. After placing the plant, press down the mixture lightly to firm it, and water if needed to help settle the soil. Finally, place the plant in a location with adequate light, but protect it from direct sunlight.

Monstera deliciosa requires repotting every two years. To repot, choose a larger pot with good drainage compared to the current pot. Place some stones or gravel at the bottom of the new pot to ensure proper water drainage. Carefully remove the plant from its current pot. If the roots are very dense, gently trim some of them. Clean off some of the old soil from the roots to help them integrate better with the new soil. Place the plant in the new pot with some soil and a high-quality potting mix. Keep the plant upright and add more soil around it. After filling the pot with soil, press it down lightly with your hands to stabilize the plant. Water the plant thoroughly after repotting to help settle the soil and integrate the roots with the new soil. Place the plant in a location with adequate light, but protect it from direct sunlight.

Common Pests And Problems

Monstera deliciosa is generally easy to grow indoors and requires minimal care, but it can encounter some issues during growth, such as pest infestations, brown spots on leaf edges, yellow or brown leaves, black spots on leaves, and drooping leaves. These problems may be caused by overwatering or underwatering, excessive sunlight, or over-fertilization. However, these issues can be resolved through regular monitoring, proper care, and corrective measures.

Yellow & Brown Leaves

Yellowing and browning of leaves is a common issue with Monstera deliciosa. This can occur if the soil becomes too dry or if excessive fertilization is used. To address this problem, regularly check the soil. Water the plant when the top layer of soil dries out, and continue watering until the soil is thoroughly moist. Monstera deliciosa does not require excessive fertilization. Over-fertilization can damage the plant’s roots, leading to yellow or brown leaves. Therefore, apply fertilizer in moderation during the growing season.

Wilting, Curling, Or Drooping

If the leaves of Monstera deliciosa are wilting, curling, or drooping, several factors might be involved: overwatering or underwatering, uncontrolled sunlight, and nutrient deficiency. Overwatering can lead to waterlogged soil, causing root rot and negatively affecting the leaves. If the roots rot, the leaves may start to wilt and droop. Conversely, if the plant does not receive enough water, the leaves can dry out and curl. Check the soil’s dryness and water regularly as needed. Too little or too much light can also affect the leaves’ condition. Place the plant in a spot with adequate shade and bright, indirect light. Additionally, if the plant does not receive sufficient nutrients, the leaves may deteriorate. Apply fertilizer once a month to address nutrient deficiencies.

Black Spots On Leaves

Black spots on the leaves of Monstera deliciosa are not a common issue and can cause serious harm to the plant. Typically, this condition occurs due to overly moist or waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot and black spots on the leaves. Additionally, if the leaves are exposed to direct sunlight, they may get scorched and develop black spots. Conversely, black spots may also result from diseases or fungal infections. Regularly clean the leaves and remove any affected ones. If there are signs of disease or fungal infection, use appropriate pest control and fungicides.

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