Monstera care

The Monstera is a true eye-catcher for any interior!This tropical houseplant is known for its large, glossy leaves with natural cuts and holes. A unique pattern that earned it the nickname “Swiss cheese plant.” The Monstera loves light, warmth, and a bit of humidity. Thanks to its strong growth, it’s an easy yet impressive houseplant.

Best location for the Monstera

The Swiss cheese plant originates from the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, where it grows beneath the canopy of tall trees.
It therefore prefers lots of indirect light, but no direct sunlight.

• Place the plant near an east- or west-facing window, where it receives plenty of light without getting burned
• Too little light will cause the leaves to stay smaller and develop fewer cuts
• The ideal temperature is between 18 and 25°C
• Avoid drafts and cold air, as the plant is sensitive to these conditions

Watering the Swiss cheese plant

The Monstera likes lightly moist soil, but absolutely not wet feet. Too much water can cause root rot, which this plant is prone to.

• In spring and summer, water about once or twice per week
• In autumn and winter, reduce watering to once every 1.5 to 2 weeks, depending on the temperature and humidity in your home
• Always check the soil first: only water when the top 2–3 cm (1 inch) feels dry
• Use a moisture meter to determine when watering is needed
  The Swiss cheese plant also appreciates some extra humidity. Mist the leaves regularly with a spray bottle to keep them fresh and dust-free.

Blooming of the Monstera

Although the Swiss cheese plant can produce beautiful white flowers in its natural habitat, it rarely blooms indoors.
Inside, the focus is mainly on the growth of its impressive leaves.
The typical cuts and holes in its foliage are what make this plant a tropical showpiece, even without flowers.

Humidity and temperature

The Monstera comes from a humid, tropical environment, so it thrives in high humidity.
In winter, when heating makes the air drier, you can increase humidity by:

• Regularly misting the leaves with a spray bottle
• Placing the pot on a tray with water and pebbles (make sure the roots don’t sit in the water)
• Using a humidifier nearby. The ideal temperature is between 18 and 25°C.
  Make sure the plant is not placed in a draft or next to a radiator.

Monstera soil and pot

The Monstera grows best in airy, well-draining potting soil.

• Choose a pot with drainage holes so excess water can drain away
• When repotting, check the roots, if they fill the pot or grow through the holes, it’s time for a larger pot

Feeding the Monstera

During the growing season (March to September), feed your Monstera once a month with liquid houseplant fertilizer.
This supports new leaf growth and keeps the foliage lush and strong.
In autumn and winter, the plant does not need extra feeding, as it’s in its resting phase.
Too much fertilizer during this time can damage the roots or make the soil too acidic.

Repotting the Monstera: how and when?

Repot your Monstera every 2 to 3 years, preferably in spring.
This is when the plant starts to grow actively and can adapt best to new soil.

Why repot?

• The roots get more space to grow
• The soil becomes depleted and less airy over time
• Fresh soil improves drainage and adds new nutrients

When repotting, choose apot that’s 2–4 cm largerthan the previous one, and fill it withfresh, airy potting soil.

Pruning the Monstera

Pruning keeps your Monstera healthy, compact, and beautifully shaped.

Why prune?

• Removes dead or damaged leaves
• Stimulates new growth
• Keeps the plant balanced when it grows too large or wild

When to prune?

• The best time is spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing

How to prune?

• Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
• Cut off dead, yellow, or torn leaves at the base
• Trim long stems if the plant becomes too large
• Keep healthy leaves — they provide energy through photosynthesis

Propagating the Monstera (cuttings)

Propagating the Monstera is simple and fun!
You can do this by taking cuttings from stems with an aerial root or node.

Steps:

1. Cut a piece of stem just below a node with an aerial root
2. Place the cutting in water or directly into moist soil
3. Within a few weeks, new roots will develop
4. Once the roots are strong enough, plant the cutting in its own pot

Common problems with the Monstera

Like any tropical houseplant, the Monstera can face some minor issues:

• Yellow leaves: Often caused by too much water or too little light
• Brown leaf edges: Air is too dry or watering is inconsistent
• Mealybugs or spider mites: Remove with a damp cloth or use a mild organic pesticide
• Few leaf cuts: The plant is not getting enough light