Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese plant, is a tropical plant from the Araceae family. It is a species of flowering plant native to tropical forests of southern Mexico, south to Panama. It has been introduced to many tropical areas, and has become a mildly invasive species in Hawaii, Seychelles, Ascension Island and the Society Islands.
Here in Singapore, the Monstera has been growing in popularity as an houseplant with more young homeowners looking to get one for their home. Today we share with you more information about this well loved plant with tips on how you can take care of it better so that you can enjoy it for many more years to come.
Light
Monstera deliciosa is a plant that can tolerate medium to high light and prefers bright indirect sun all day long. If gradually introduced, it can also take a few hours of direct sun. Moving a Monstera deliciosa too quickly from indirect light to direct light can cause leaf scorch. On the other hand, if it is left to grow in low light conditions, it may induce negative phototropism; a phenomenon where a plant grows towards darkness instead of light.
Water
Although it can tolerate drying out a fair bit, it is best to ensure that your Monstera deliciosa is watered moderately and thoroughly each time. Allow the growing media to dry out about halfway. The best way to tell if your plant requires water is to use a moisture meter to probe the soil, as the plant can grow to become fairly heavy. Overwatering may easily lead to root rot as this plant does not enjoy having overly wet feet.
Humidity
As a tropical plant, the Monstera deliciosa can tolerate moderate humidity levels of about 60%. It is not the fussiest and can tolerate most indoor household conditions in Singapore. Misting the leaves of a Monstera deliciosa may lead to rust fungus and it is recommended that the leaves are kept dry.
Growing Environment
Monstera deliciosa prefer a well-draining growing media. A coarse mix with coco chips, orchid bark, pumice and coco coir may be preferable. This plant can grow to be large and majestic if you allow it to, so if you want it small, you can consider pruning some of the leaves.
Routine Maintenance
The Monstera deliciosa grows to be a fairly large plant. Regular pruning may be necessary to help keep it in shape, and if purchased young, a trellis may help to coax the plant to grow in a more compact manner. Leaves can be easily pruned for propagation through water. To keep its large leaves dust-free, it is recommended that they are wiped down routinely with a warm soapy solution.
Further Reading
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monstera_deliciosa
- https://www.nparks.gov.sg/florafaunaweb/flora/1/4/1453
