Swiss cheese plant
Monstera deliciosa
A tropical aroid with large glossy, fenestrated leaves; popular indoor vining houseplant known as the Swiss cheese plant, native to Central America.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: toxic
All parts contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion causes oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and swelling in pets and people.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place your Monstera in bright, indirect light—near an east or north-facing window or several feet back from a west/south window. Avoid harsh midday sun which scorches leaves. It tolerates lower light but growth and fenestration slow significantly.
Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) of soil feels dry. Allow excess to drain; do not let plant sit in water. Use a well-draining, chunky potting mix and reduce frequency in cooler months to prevent root rot.
Humidity
Prefers medium to high humidity (around 50–70%) but tolerates average homes. Increase humidity with pebble trays, regular misting, grouping plants, or a humidifier for faster growth and fewer brown leaf edges.
Temperature
Ideal range 16–30°C (60–86°F). Avoid prolonged exposure below 12–15°C (54–59°F) and protect from cold drafts and sudden drops in temperature.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Yellowing lower leaves
Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage causing root stress
Solution: Check roots for rot, cut affected roots, repot in fresh well-draining mix, reduce watering frequency and improve drainage
Crispy brown leaf edges
Cause: Underwatering, low humidity, or salt buildup from fertilizer/water
Solution: Increase humidity, water more evenly, flush soil occasionally to remove salts and trim damaged edges
Leggy growth with small leaves
Cause: Insufficient light
Solution: Move to brighter indirect light, prune to encourage branching and consider providing a moss pole to climb
Sticky leaves, fine webbing or tiny spots
Cause: Pests such as scale, mealybugs or spider mites
Solution: Isolate plant, wipe leaves with soapy water or alcohol, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil and repeat until eradicated
✂️How to Propagate Swiss cheese plant
For stem cuttings: select a healthy vine with at least one node and an aerial root. Cut below the node, remove lower leaves and root in water or a moist, well-draining mix. Keep warm and humid; roots appear in 2–6 weeks. For air-layering: wound a stem, pack damp sphagnum around the wound, wrap in plastic to retain moisture, and wait for roots before cutting and potting. Division: remove from pot, separate root ball into sections with at least one stem and roots, then repot.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Araceae
Native to: Native to tropical rainforests of southern Mexico through Central America to Panama.
Natural Habitat: An understory climber in humid tropical forests, Monstera grows on tree trunks seeking dappled light, high humidity and rich, well-draining organic soils while developing aerial roots.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Reduce watering and stop fertilizing. Keep plant away from cold drafts and windows with freezing nights. Maintain steady indoor temperatures and provide humidity to prevent leaf edge browning.
Spring
Resume regular feeding and increase water as growth restarts. Repot if rootbound, prune for shape, and provide support for climbing stems to encourage vigorous new growth.
Summer
Peak growth season—water more frequently, raise humidity, and fertilize monthly. Ensure bright, indirect light and provide a trellis or moss pole for climbing.
Fall
Gradually reduce fertilizer and slightly cut back watering as growth slows. Inspect for pests and tidy up older leaves to prepare for lower light and cooler temperatures.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my Monstera?
Water when the top 2–5 cm of soil is dry—typically every 1–2 weeks depending on light, pot size and season.
Why aren’t my Monstera leaves developing holes?
Insufficient light, immaturity, or restricted root space can delay fenestration. Provide brighter indirect light and proper support to encourage splits.
Can I root Monstera cuttings in water?
Yes. Place a node with an aerial root in water, change water weekly, and pot when roots are a few centimetres long for best establishment.
What soil is best for Monstera deliciosa?
A chunky, well-draining mix with bark, perlite and peat or coco—provides aeration and retains some moisture without staying soggy.
Is Monstera toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. Monstera contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation, swelling and vomiting if chewed or eaten by pets.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025