BOTANICAL NAME: Monstera deliciosa
COMMON NAME: Swiss Cheese Plant, Mexican Breadfruit Plant, Taro Vine
ORIGIN: Tropical Americas
GOOD FOR: Intermediate plant parents
HEIGHT: 30 feet tall
LIGHT: Bright, indirect light. Can survive in lower light, but the leaves will not split and the plant will become leggy, searching for light. Avoid direct sun, as it may burn the leaves. Place a few feet away from a south, west or east facing window.
WINDOW PREFERENCE: East, south, and west windows work best.
WATER: Wait until the top two inches of soil is dry and then water around the base of the plant until you see water draining from the bottom of the pot. At this point you can stop.
HUMIDITY: This plant loves humidity. Keep on a pebble tray or use a humidifier. Plant collectors can group with other plants for some self-made humidity. These plants like a good misting every few days. Remember to always mist in the morning.
TEMPERATURE: Prefers to be between 65-85 degrees. Will not do well in temperatures below 50 degrees. Keep away from drafts and heat vents.
SOIL / REPOTTING: Needs well-draining indoor potting soil with additional peat moss mixed in. Prefers to be in a larger pot, so it has more room for root growth, and this will encourage bigger leaves. Only repot every two years or so and cut back any new growth if you want to limit the size.
PLANT FOOD: In spring and summer, feed once a month. We recommend using Joyful Dirt Houseplant Plant Food. Stop feeding in fall and winter due to slower growth and dormancy.
PRUNING: Keep the leaves clean and dust free; can trim to keep the size manageable and the vines full.
PESTS: Mites, aphids, mealy bugs, scale, and whiteflies.
TOXICITY: Mildly toxic if ingested.
ANGRY PLANT PROBLEMS: Water droplets or perspiration on the leaves - overwatering. Brown leaf edges or wilting leaves - Too little water. A thorough watering is in order.
