If you’re considering a new addition to your home this season, this is your sign to look no further than this Monstera.
Many Monsteras
It should firstly be noted that there are almost 60 species of Monsteras within this family. On top of those species there many more unique and popular cultivars and varieties. Some species are quite rare others have more difficult care sheets. We like the deliciosa because it’s easily accessible, can be found in a wide-range of sizes and tends to be more-often-than-not, successful.
The Basics Of Care
Sunlight
Monsteras do best in bright, indirect light, year-round. If your plant’s lighting conditions are not optimal, in that it’s receiving either too much light or light that is too direct the leaves will get scorched and almost appear to be burned. You’ll want to have your plant in a location where it can receive about 4-6 hours of filtered light.
Water
Rather than being on a consistent watering schedule, we often say to be on a consistent soil-check schedule. About once a week/every two weeks stick a finger into your soil till about your first knuckle to check the dryness. In general, the Spring/Summers will mean rapid growth and therefore more watering whereas Fall/Winter will see a slowdown, and less frequent waterings. Another interesting indicator depending on the size of your plant will be if your pot feels lighter. Using warm to room-temperature water, provide a slow and steady watering.
Julie’s Notes: All the species in this family are considered hemiepiphytes, with roots in the ground from which their vines produce aerial roots. These specialized structures take in additional moisture and nutrients directly from the air. In short, this means that they get their water from two sources.
Temperature & Humidity
Given that monsteras can uptake water from both their underground and aerial systems; they do flourish in higher humidities. Around 40-60% is ideal, on average your home will be around 30-40% sometimes higher in the summer. Therefore, if possible, either place your monstera in a higher humidity area. This includes kitchens or bathrooms, or run a small humidifier to boost levels. As for temperature be sure to stay in the range of 18˚C-30˚C to avoid any cold damage, and keep in mind that higher temperatures translate to more frequent waterings.
Soil, Pot and Repotting and More
Always use a well-draining potting-mix that is nutrient dense with good aeration. Feel free to customize a store-bought soil mix with additions like peat moss, perlite or even lava rocks. For pot selection the rule of thumb is to select something that is about 2-4 inches larger than the root ball. We often recommend repotting as soon as you bring home a new plant which also means you can adjust potting size right away if needed. Additional repotting is usually needed once every 1-3 years. A good indicator is roots popping out of the drainage holes or above the soil level. Lastly, as your plant continues to grow you should support the vining habit by adding a support; either a bamboo, moss, coco pole is preferred.
The Other Benefits
A final note on the Monstera deliciosa is that it will have a direct impact on your home. It visually changes its space and benefits the inhabitants. Stress levels are reduced, air quality improved, productivity boosted and attention sharpened. Not only that, but as you spend time caring for this houseplant, you’ll be reconnecting with nature, improving your well-being and daily life. And with proper care you could enjoy this plant for 30-40 years.
May a lovely Monstera be welcomed into your home this season. If you’re looking for additional houseplants review some of our styling favourites or our top selections for large houseplants. For more reading and inspiration on all things home, gardening and lifestyle? Check out the The Wild Blog. Plus, if you don’t already, be sure to follow us on Instagram and Pinterest!
