Hello, human. I am a Monstera deliciosa, though you might know me as the Swiss Cheese Plant. From my perspective, thriving in your care is about replicating the dappled sunlight and humid air of my native jungle floor. To help you help me, here is a guide to my needs.
I do not enjoy the harsh, direct gaze of the afternoon sun; it will scorch my beautiful, fenestrated leaves, leaving unsightly brown patches. However, I am not a creature of deep shadow either. I crave bright, indirect light. A spot a few feet from a south or east-facing window is ideal. Here, I can photosynthesize efficiently, producing the energy needed to grow large and strong, and—most excitingly—develop those iconic splits and holes in my mature leaves, a process called fenestration.
My roots need oxygen as much as they need water. Overwatering is the quickest way to make me suffer, leading to root rot, a silent and deadly killer. You must check the soil before giving me a drink. Plunge your finger about two inches into the potting mix. If it feels dry, it is time for a thorough, deep watering until it runs freely from the drainage holes. If it is still damp, please wait. In the winter, when my growth slows, I will need much less frequent watering.
I remember the warm, moist air of the tropics. While I can adapt to the average humidity in your home, I will truly flourish with extra moisture. Dry air leads to crispy, brown leaf edges. You can mimic my preferred conditions by placing my pot on a pebble tray filled with water, grouping me with other plants, or using a humidifier. I am comfortable in the same temperatures you are, between 65°F and 85°F. Please keep me away from cold drafts and heating or air conditioning vents, as sudden temperature changes are a shock to my system.
I require a well-aerated, chunky potting mix that drains exceptionally well. A standard potting soil is too dense and will retain too much water around my roots. A mix designed for aroids, or one amended with perlite, orchid bark, and coconut coir, is perfect. It allows my roots to access water, nutrients, and air all at once. During my active growing season (spring and summer), I appreciate a monthly feeding with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. This gives me the strength to push out new, magnificent leaves for you.
In my natural habitat, I am a climbing hemiepiphyte. I use my aerial roots to grip onto trees and climb towards the canopy. In your home, I will appreciate a moss pole or a sturdy trellis to support my growth. Gently tying my stems to a pole encourages larger leaf development and a more upright, majestic form. It makes me feel at home.
