How to Care for a Monstera Deliciosa


The Monstera deliciosa is one of the most flexible plants to grow. This plant can grow to be enormous, hence the name "monster".  This plant can easily become a focal point of the room, with their large split leaves they bring a touch of the tropical jungle indoors. Monsteras are water-loving plants and will thrive in water.   They are an excellent choice for a prop plant in the living room.  The Monstera plant is absolutely low maintenance and are considered climbing plants; if you want to grow your Monstera tall instead of wide, use moss sticks or stakes to guide its growth upward (as these plants love to ascend vertical surfaces).  There is a wide assortment of different types of Monstera Deliciosa to choose from, with the most popular being the "Variegata", "Marmorata", "Aurea" and "Borsigiana".  All these variations have different leaf patterns and colours.

Light: The Monstera deliciosa appreciates bright indirect sunlight but can grow comfortably under low light.  Dusting the leaves often allows maximum light penetration. Yellowing of the leaves is occasionally a sign of inadequate light, while direct sunlight will burn their leaves. If your Monstera deliciosa is leaning, it is probably growing towards the light, and you need to rotate it.

Watering: Monsteras should be watered thoroughly, and it is best not to let the soil dry too much in between waterings. The Monstera's leaves turn brown if the water has a high salt count. It is best to use rainwater or distilled water for a healthy monstera.

Humidity: Monstera, being a tropical plant, thrives in moderate to high humidity. Clustering your plants together is an excellent way of maintaining a high humidity for the plants.

General care: Big support and a big pot will result in big leaves on your Monstera. The secret about Monsteras is that they will only put out big leaves once they know they have enough support. Use a steady pole to support your Monstera, and be sure to tie the stem only and not the petiole. Petioles turn to follow the sun, and tying them only limits the amount of light your plant receives.

Unhappy Houseplant signs: Yellow or brown leaves are a clear sign of overwatering, and drooping leaves means your plant is not getting enough water.