how much light do monstera deliciosa need?
To thrive and produce those iconic fenestrations (the holes in the leaves), your Monstera craves bright, indirect light. I believe that all Monstera should be right next to a window. Even if your plant gets a ton of direct light, it will still thrive if you give it enough water. In lower light, the plant will survive, but it will become "leggy" (long stems stretching for light) and the new leaves will remain small, solid, and heart-shaped without any holes.
How do you water a monstera deliciosa?
Overwatering is the number one killer of houseplants, and the Swiss Cheese Plant is no exception. Mastering Monstera watering is about observing the soil, not following a strict calendar.
When to Water
Insert your finger about two to three inches into the soil. If the soil feels damp, wait a little. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water.
How to Water
When you do water, water deeply. Pour water over the soil until it flows freely out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures the entire root ball is hydrated. Discard any excess water sitting in the saucer; Monstera hate "wet feet" and sitting in stagnant water will lead to root rot.
Tip: In the winter, your plant goes dormant (still grows just less). You will likely need to cut your watering down a bunch. The one exception I've found is if you have forced air heating you may have air blowing near certain plants which actually dries soil more.
What type of soil do monstera deliciosa need?
Standard potting soil from the garden center is often too dense for a Monstera. They'll survive in it for sure, but like most things when caring for plants you want to set yourself up for success. These plants are epiphytes (they grow on other plants) and their roots need plenty of airflow.
To create the perfect environment, you should use a chunky soil amendment. A great DIY recipe is:
- 50% High-quality indoor potting soil
- 25% Perlite (for drainage)
- 25% Orchid Bark (for chunkiness and aeration)
This mixture allows water to drain quickly while retaining just enough moisture for the roots to drink.
How to help your monstera thive?
Encouraging Growth: Nodes, Aerial Roots, and Moss Poles
As your Swiss Cheese Plant matures, you will notice long, brown roots growing from the stems. These are aerial roots. In nature, they latch onto trees to support the plant as it climbs.
What to do with Aerial Roots?
You have three options:
- Leave them: They are natural and healthy.
- Tuck them: Guide them back into the soil to absorb more nutrients. Eventually this can be pretty overkill if you guide all of the aerial roots back into a small-ish pot.
- Trim them: If they get unsightly, you can trim them back with scissors without hurting the plant.
Using a Moss Pole
Because Monsteras are climbers, giving them a moss pole or trellis to climb will encourage the leaves to grow significantly larger. Attach the stem (not the petioles/leaf stems) to the pole using plant velcro or plant ties.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Even with the best Monstera care, issues can arise. Here is how to diagnose your plant:
1. Yellowing Leaves
This is the classic sign of overwatering. Check your soil immediately. If it is soggy, let it dry out completely. If the pot has no drainage holes, repot the plant immediately into a pot that drains.
2. Brown, Crispy Tips
This usually indicates a lack of humidity or sporadic watering (letting the plant get too dry). Mist your plant occasionally or place a humidifier nearby.
3. Leaves Not Splitting
If your plant is producing only solid, heart-shaped leaves, it is likely not getting enough light. Move it closer to a window or add a grow light. Note: Very young plants naturally do not have splits; give them time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Monstera Deliciosa toxic to cats and dogs? Enough. The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. If chewed or ingested, it can cause intense irritation of the mouth, drooling, and vomiting. Keep this plant out of reach of curious pets. I personally don't consider them dangerous but according to the ASPCA, they technically are.
How often should I fertilize? During the growing season (Spring and Summer), feed your Monstera once a month with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer. Stop fertilizing in the winter.
When should I repot my Monstera? Young plants may need repotting every year, while mature plants can go 2-3 years. Repot when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes or coiling around the bottom of the pot.
By following this Monstera Deliciosa care guide, you are well on your way to growing a massive, jungle-worthy specimen. Remember: bright indirect light and a "less is more" approach to watering are the keys to success!
