All About Baby Monstera Plant Seeds: Germination, Storage and Sowing

Monstera deliciosa, commonly known as the Swiss cheese plant, is a gorgeous tropical plant loved for its dramatic split leaves While Monstera is most often propagated by stem cuttings, growing it from seeds can be an exciting adventure for patient gardeners In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Monstera seeds, from how to obtain and store them to germination and beyond.

Monstera seeds are small, round, and dark brown or black in color. They have a hard outer shell that protects the plant embryo inside. This tough coating allows Monstera seeds to survive in the plant’s natural rainforest habitat until conditions are right for germination

When growing Monstera from seeds, it’s important to start with high-quality, fresh seeds. Optimal seeds will be uniform in size and color. Damaged, discolored, or deformed seeds are less likely to successfully germinate.

Where to Get Monstera Seeds

There are a few options for obtaining Monstera seeds:

• Harvest from ripe fruit: If you have a mature Monstera plant that produces fruit, wait until the fruit is completely ripe before harvesting the seeds. Extract them from the pulp, rinse, and allow to dry.

• Purchase from nurseries or online retailers: Many specialty nurseries and online stores sell Monstera seeds. Opt for fresh seeds from reputable sellers and check reviews.

• Seed exchanges: Connect with fellow gardeners to trade seeds. This can help you find rare or unusual Monstera varieties.

No matter the source, start with high-quality seeds and proper storage for the best chance of germination.

Storing Monstera Seeds

With proper storage, Monstera seeds can remain viable for months or even years. Here are some tips for storage:

• Clean and thoroughly dry seeds before storage. Remove any pulp or moisture.

• Place seeds in an airtight glass jar or zip-top bag. Add a silica gel packet to absorb excess moisture.

• Label with the seed type and date. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct light.

• Ideal storage temperature is between 65-70°F. Avoid freezing or excessive heat.

• Check seeds occasionally for moisture and signs of deterioration. Discard any moldy seeds.

• Test seed viability yearly by planting a few to check germination rates. Discard non-viable seeds.

Proper storage keeps seeds fresh until you are ready to germinate them.

Preparing Seeds for Germination

Before planting, Monstera seeds need some preparation to increase the chances of successful germination:

• Scarification: Carefully nick or sand the seed coating using sandpaper or a file. This allows moisture to penetrate.

• Soaking: Soak scarified seeds in room temperature water for 24-48 hours prior to planting.

• Disinfecting: Soak seeds for 1 minute in a 10% bleach solution to kill any bacteria or fungus. Rinse well.

• Warm stratification: Store soaked seeds in a warm place (around 75°F) for a few weeks before planting.

These steps soften the seed coating, hydrate the embryo, and mimic natural conditions for germination.

Choosing a Growing Medium

The growing medium provides nutrients, moisture, and support for young Monstera seedlings. Ideal options include:

• Seed starting mix
• Peat or coconut coir
• Perlite, vermiculite, sand for drainage
• Sterilized potting soil

The medium should be lightweight, sterile, and well-draining. Soilless mixes prevent potential diseases. Adding perlite improves drainage to prevent rot.

Planting Monstera Seeds

Once prepped, Monstera seeds can be planted. Follow these steps:

• Fill small pots with pre-moistened growing medium. Leave 1/2 inch space at the top.

• Plant 2-3 seeds in each pot, 1 inch deep. Space seeds 1-2 inches apart.

• Lightly water after planting to further settle the seeds.

• Cover pots with plastic wrap or a humidity dome to retain moisture.

• Place in a warm (70-75°F) spot with indirect sunlight.

• Remove dome once seeds sprout to prevent mold.

Monstera seeds can take 4-8 weeks to germinate. Be patient and keep soil moist, not soaked.

Caring for Monstera Seedlings

Once sprouted, Monstera seedlings need attentive care:

• Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves.

• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not saturated. Let top inch dry between waterings.

• Temperature: Maintain warm temps around 70-80°F. Lower temps may inhibit growth.

• Humidity: Higher humidity encourages growth. Mist leaves or use a humidity tray.

• Fertilizer: Use half-strength liquid fertilizer once seedlings develop leaves.

• Thinning: Snip off weaker seedlings, leaving 1 per pot. Transplant the others.

• Transplanting: Transplant seedlings to larger pots once 2 sets of leaves appear.

With attentive care, seedlings will flourish into young Monstera plants!

Troubleshooting Monstera Seedlings

Check seedlings carefully for potential issues:

• Leggy growth: Insufficient light, increase gradually.

• Drooping leaves: Underwatering, increase frequency.

• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering, check for rot.

• Molded soil: Poor drainage, transplant to better medium.

• Pests: Isolate and apply neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Failure to thrive: Low temperature or humidity, adjust conditions.

Catching problems early allows you to remedy them before they threaten your seedlings.

Transplanting Monstera Seedlings

As seedlings outgrow their starter pots, transplant them into larger containers:

• Choose a pot 2-4 inches wider than the current pot.

• Gently remove the root ball and loosen bound roots before replanting.

• Fill the pot with fresh, fertile potting mix with good drainage.

• Plant at the same level as before and water thoroughly after transplanting.

• Stake larger plants for support. Place in bright indirect light.

• Monitor new growth and adjust care as needed.

With proper transplanting, your homegrown Monstera seedlings will continue thriving!

Enjoying Your Monstera Seedlings

Growing Monstera from seeds is an exercise in patience and care. But the excitement of sprouting those first tiny seed leaves makes it all worthwhile. With time and attentive nurturing, you’ll have beautiful, enduring Monsteras to enjoy.