Monstera plants, whose full name are Monstera Deliciosa, are actually pretty easy to take care of.
They reign from southern Mexico and Panama, and because of the holes they create their leaves as they mature, they are often referred to as Philodendron Split Leaf or the Swiss Cheese Plant.
Monstera leaf holes are a byproduct of originating in the rainforest, where vegetation above blocks sunlight. So the holes are to allow sunlight to get to the bottom leaves as well as the top.
The Monstera deliciosa commonly known as the Swiss cheese plant is a popular houseplant revered for its unique, perforated leaves. Getting a baby Monstera plant can be an exciting way to start your journey growing this tropical beauty. With the right indoor care, your baby Monstera can flourish into a statement floor plant. This article provides tips to grow a lush, healthy Monstera plant indoors.
Choosing the Right Pot
Picking an appropriate pot is key for baby Monstera plants to establish healthy roots and grow well. Opt for a pot with the following features:
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Drainage holes – This prevents waterlogging that can lead to root rot
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6-8 inches diameter – Provides adequate room for root development but not oversized.
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Plastic or ceramic – Allows air circulation to roots while providing stability.
Avoid overpotting baby Monsteras into an excessively large container, as this retains moisture and encourages rot. Start in a moderately sized pot and size up as the plant grows.
The Best Soil Mix
Monsteras thrive in a well-aerated, moisture-retentive soil. An ideal potting mix contains:
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Peat moss – Retains moisture and nutrients for roots.
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Perlite – Provides drainage to prevent soggy soil.
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Compost – Adds organic matter and beneficial microbes.
You can make your own mix using equal parts peat, perlite and compost. Or use a quality potting soil blended for tropicals or aroids.
Perfect Lighting Conditions
Baby Monsteras grow best with bright, indirect light. Ideal lighting situations include:
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Near an east or west-facing window
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In a north window supplemented by a grow light
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3-5 feet from a south window
Avoid direct hot sun which can scorch leaves. Insufficient light leads to sparse growth. Adjust lighting if leaves droop or become leggy.
Ideal Temperature and Humidity
As tropical plants, Monsteras prefer warm, humid conditions:
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Temperatures of 65-80°F
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40-50% relative humidity
Use a humidifier and adjust thermostat to provide suitable humidity and temperatures. Avoid drafty areas.
Watering Needs
Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s bottom. Refrain from getting water on leaves, which can cause fungal issues.
Drooping leaves often indicate under watering. Overwatering causes yellow leaves and root rot. Adjust your schedule based on your environment.
Fertilizing for Growth
Feeding a balanced liquid fertilizer supports a baby Monstera’s growth:
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Use 1/4 strength houseplant fertilizer.
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Fertilize monthly during spring through fall.
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Avoid overfertilizing which can burn roots.
Alternatively, use a slow release fertilizer following package directions.
Providing Support
As a climbing vine, Monsteras benefit from a support structure as they mature:
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Install a moss pole or plant stakes when stems reach 12 inches.
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Use plant ties to gently attach stems to support.
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This encourages upright growth habit.
Without support, stems will trail downward.
Controlling Height
If aiming to restrict your Monstera’s height:
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Keep in a smaller pot to limit root growth.
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Pinch out the central growing tip to discourage vertical growth.
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Prune leggy stems back to a node.
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Position away from light sources to slow growth.
Otherwise allow it to grow tall and provide proper support.
Ensuring Adequate Air Circulation
Prevent fungal diseases and promote air circulation with these tips:
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Space plants 1-2 feet apart if grouping multiple plants.
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Position away from air vents to avoid cold drafts.
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Rotate the plant occasionally for even light exposure.
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Prune congested growth to open up the plant’s interior.
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Use a small fan to gently circulate air around plants.
Typical Growth Rate
Expect your baby Monstera to grow around:
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4-6 inches per month in spring and summer.
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1-3 inches per month in fall and winter.
Warmer temperatures and adequate light fuels rapid growth in the growing season. Provide ideal conditions for best results.
Ongoing Maintenance
To sustain a healthy Monstera as it matures:
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Wipe leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to keep them dust-free.
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Prune off any dead, damaged, or diseased foliage.
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Repot annually while young into slightly larger containers.
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Propagate to generate new baby Monsteras!
With proper care, your baby Monstera will transform into a striking centerpiece plant for your indoor jungle. Don’t hesitate to adjust factors like light, water and temperature based on your environment and the plant’s needs. Recognizing when your plant needs a change is crucial as it grows. With a little attention, you’ll be rewarded with a vigorous, lush Monstera plant.
Troubleshooting Issues
Here are some common problems and solutions if your Monstera is struggling:
Brown leaf tips – This often indicates low humidity. Mist leaves or use a humidifier.
Yellow leaves – Could signify overwatering or saturated soil. Allow soil to dry out more between waterings.
Drooping – Check for underwatering and water well if soil is dry. Also can indicate too little light.
Sparse growth – Increase light exposure if plant is stretching for sunlight. Fertilize regularly to encourage new growth.
Leaf spots or fungus – Prune affected leaves. Improve air circulation and avoid water on leaves.
FAQs
How much light does a baby Monstera need?
Bright, indirect light is ideal. Some direct morning sun is tolerated. Too much harsh light can burn leaves.
What temperature is best for Monsteras?
Daytime temperatures of 65-80°F are preferred. Nighttime temps of 60-65°F. Avoid excessive cold or heat.
Should I mist my Monstera?
Occasional misting can boost humidity levels. But take care not to get water droplets on leaves, which can cause fungal leaf spots if it remains wet.
When should I repot my baby Monstera?
Repot young Monsteras annually in early spring as their root systems grow rapidly. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years.
What are the signs my Monstera needs more light?
Leggy growth, smaller leaves, dull coloration, and drooping indicate insufficient lighting. Try moving the plant closer to a window or adding supplemental lighting.
With a basic understanding of a Monstera’s ideal growing conditions, you can confidently nurture a thriving baby plant. Monitor its progress and make adjustments as needed. Your diligent care will result in a healthy, vibrant Monstera that develops into an impressive statement plant over time.
Is Monstera a good indoor plant?
Yes. Monstera thrive best in indirect light, in warm environments. Monstera will not survive in cold outdoor areas.
Should I Fertilize My Monstera Plant?
Fertilizers can be tricky, so once I found one I could use on all of my houseplants, I bought a giant bottle and that was that.
The fertilizer I use is one that I add to my water, so I fertilize once a month in the growing season at the beginning of each month with SUPERthrive.
It is a bit pricey, but in my experience it has helped my plants stay healthy and fed better than any other fertilizer I have come across. I swear by it!
- Curling leaves – may be under watering, check if soil is dry or moist
- Yellowing leaves – may be overwatering, check if soil is dry or soggy. Could also be lack of enough indirect sunlight
- Blackish stems – may be over watering, check if soil is dry or soggy.
In the wild, Monsteras climb up on other trees as they grow, and can grow up to 66 feet tall! Inside they can only get to about 9 feet tall, and will use a stake (preferably covered in moss but mine is not) as their inside host.
I learned the hard way that staking is a must for Monsteras through taking care of another smaller, but bushier one I have in a different room.
For a long time it wasn’t staked, until one day as I was dusting the leaves, I knocked the whole thing over onto the desk below where it perched, and sadly, many stems tore off the main plant.
I was able to propagate some of those stems, thank goodness, but I learned my lesson. Stakes help the plant grow upward and can really help keep all those big leaves balanced.
I planted some of the stems I propagated alongside Fran in her pot! I figured there was enough space and Fran could use a little company, and the addition made Fran’s bottom half more proportional with her giant top half.
She does have some new smaller leaves off a node at the bottom of her trunk, but the rest of the leaves are from a different Monstera.