Monstera (Cheese plant)

All about the Monstera

Monstera Deliciosa, also called the "Swiss cheese plant," is a tropical plant with very distinct, gorgeous leaves. Taking care of this plant is not difficult, making them a good choice for novices.

The Monstera Deliciosa can grow fruits in nature. This plant requires a good amount of space as it grows quite big, so keep this in mind when having it indoors. Its majestic leaves give life to any room.

Nicknames

• Swiss cheese plant
• Philodendron Pertusem
• Mexican Breadfruit
• Hurricane Plant

Different types of the Monstera

The Monstera Deliciosa has several other varieties as well. Some of them are:

• Monstera Adansonii (has bigger holes than the Deliciosa)
• Monstera Borsigiana (smaller in size but grows faster than the Monstera Deliciosa)
• Monstera Variegata (has leaves that have a painted white appearance)
• Monstera Pinnatipartita (they have slits instead of holes)
• Monstera Siltepecana (has unique, tear-drop shaped leaves)

Origin of the Monstera

The Monstera Deliciosa is native to Mexico and Panama. It can grow up to 21 meters tall. This gorgeous plant belongs to the Araceae family. The nickname "Swiss cheese plant" has been given to it because of the holes that the leaves of this houseplant develop after it matures. Additionally, its leaves can grow up to 91 centimeters wide.

How to take care of the Monstera

The Monstera Deliciosa is generally really easy to take care of. When the beautiful leaves of this plant attract dust, just soak a rag in a mix of water and detergent. Make sure it is not soaking wet and just wipe your plant leaves clean with it. Also, inspect your plant and particularly the leaves regularly for any pests or diseases. If you find any, just wipe them off using detergent.

Watering

Don't overwater the Monstera. Just about once a week is fine. Before watering, touch or poke the soil to feel if it is dry yet. Water it if it feels dry, but if it feels soggy or too wet, don't.

Over-watering this plant can cause the roots to rot. But don't let it get too dry, as this is also not good for the plant either.

Location

Placement is key for the growth of this houseplant. Place it in a spacious spot, and do not cram it in tight corners.

Indirect sunlight is the best for the Monstera, but low light will not cause any damage either. Too much exposure to the sun will cause the leaves to turn yellow.

Moderate temperatures suit this houseplant the best indoors. 18-29°C are the perfect temperatures for the Monstera. Temperatures too low can affect the growth.

A good tip is to rotate this houseplant for better and equal growth.

The Monstera Deliciosa thrives in medium to high humidity. In case there is less humidity where you live, you can mist the leaves of this houseplant with water. You can also use a humidifier to raise humidity levels.

Plant nutrition

Feeding your houseplant will help it thrive and grow beautiful leaves. The Monstera must be fed just once a month during the spring and summer months, which are also the growth period for this plant. And use liquid fertilizer to feed it. Stop feeding it in the winter and fall months.

Repot this plant once every 2 years to provide it with room for growth. If you don't want your plant to grow too much, then don't repot frequently. When you do repot it, ensure that the pot has a hole for drainage and select a pot that is a little bit bigger.

You can also prune this houseplant to control the growth and also trim away empty stems. Cut off any dry or dead leaves when you spot them. Also, make sure to prune the plant during the growing season as well. When pruning the Monstera Deliciosa, use sharp scissors.

Air-purifying

This type of houseplant also has air purifying properties and can cleanse the air of toxins as well as reduce air pollution.

Toxicity

The Monstera can be toxic. Because this plant is poisonous, it is good to keep your pets and children away from it. This toxicity comes from the calcium oxalate crystals which can irritate the inside of the mouth or even cause vomiting. If the symptoms are severe, consult a doctor.

Propagating the Monstera Deliciosa

Propagating the Monstera Deliciosa is super easy and can be done in several ways. One way to do it is the water propagation method.

Choose a stem to propagate and cut a few centimeters below the aerial root. Then, put the stem in a glass of clean water with leaves out. Put this where bright and indirect light can hit it.

Change the water regularly, and wait for the roots to grow. Wait about a week before you pot it in soil. Start watering your plant regularly after a week or so. The soil should be well-drained but not too dry to the touch. Select a small pot for doing this and clean your shears before using them.