Monstera Deliciosa, commonly known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, is a tropical houseplant adored for its large, glossy leaves and easy-to-care-for nature. In this article, I’ll walk you through the steps of caring for Monstera Deliciosa and guide you through its propagation, so you can grow new plants and maintain the health of your existing one. For a visual guide to propagation and care, watch the video below.
Monstera Deliciosa Care
Monstera Deliciosa is a resilient and low-maintenance plant, making it a popular choice for indoor gardening. However, to keep your Monstera thriving, there are a few important care tips to follow.
Light:
This plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Placing it in filtered light or a slightly shaded spot works best. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it’s important to avoid placing it in harsh light.
Watering:
Monstera Deliciosa thrives in slightly moist soil. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out between waterings to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Be sure to use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating.
Humidity:
This plant loves a humid environment, but it’s adaptable to average household humidity levels. To boost humidity, mist the plant with filtered water once or twice a week or place a tray of water near it. Adding a humidifier nearby can also help maintain ideal humidity levels.
Pruning Yellow Leaves:
If you notice the lower leaves turning yellow, don’t worry—it’s a normal part of the plant’s aging process. Trim these leaves to maintain the plant’s health and direct its energy toward new growth. Simply use clean pruning shears to cut the leaves at the base.
Propagating Monstera Deliciosa
Now, let’s dive into the exciting process of propagation. Propagating Monstera Deliciosa is a simple and rewarding way to grow new plants from cuttings. Here’s how to do it.
Choosing a Stem:
Start by selecting a healthy stem from your Monstera. Ensure the stem has at least two visible nodes (points where leaves emerge) and two leaves. Stems without nodes or just a single leaf will not successfully propagate, so it’s essential to pick a stem with the right features.
Making the Cut:
Once you’ve identified a healthy stem, use sharp and clean pruning shears to make a clean cut just below the node. This will give the cutting the best chance to develop roots.
Water Propagation:
After cutting the stem, place it in water if it has no visible roots. Select a container filled with water and submerge the nodes while keeping the leaves above water. Position the container in a bright location, away from direct sunlight. You don’t need to change the water frequently—just top it up as needed, and replace it every two weeks. Within a month or two, roots will start to develop.
Planting in Soil:
Once the roots have developed, you can transfer the cutting to soil. Choose a well-draining potting mix suitable for houseplants. You can also add around 20% leca (lightweight expanded clay aggregate) for extra drainage, though it’s not mandatory. Smaller pots work best since Monstera plants prefer to be slightly root-bound.
After placing the plant in the pot, add support if needed to help the plant grow upright. Water the plant generously after potting, ensuring that the soil is well-hydrated.
Caring for Your New Monstera Deliciosa
After propagation, it’s important to continue caring for your new Monstera Deliciosa to ensure it thrives.
Watering:
Water thoroughly and ensure the excess water drains away. In the beginning, it’s crucial to avoid overwatering. Always check the soil moisture by feeling the top two inches—if they are dry, it’s time to water.
Fertilizing:
Hold off on fertilizing for the first six months after propagation. The plant’s roots are still delicate and can be damaged by fertilizer. Once the plant is established, you can begin feeding it with a balanced houseplant fertilizer.
Pest Prevention:
To keep pests at bay, spray the plant once a month with a diluted neem oil solution. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for proper application.
By following these steps, you’ll not only maintain the health of your Monstera Deliciosa but also successfully propagate new plants. For a visual guide to propagation, watch the video below.
Happy growing!
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