Monstera deliciosa, the Swiss cheese plant or split-leaf philodendron
Monstera, commonly called the Swiss cheese plant due to its fenestrated leaves, is a popular evergreen plant native to the tropical rainforests of south and central America. Although it is primarily grown indoors, it can thrive outdoors as long as it is grown in a non-temperate zone, reaching a height of more than 10 feet.
Monstera pinnatipartita
The Monstera plant has large, heart-shaped leaves that emerge as full leaves but form slits as they mature. This plant rarely produces flowers when grown indoors. When they do produce flowers, they yield little fruits that are shaped like corncobs.
Planting and Maintenance
Monstera is a fast-growing plant that is easy to maintain. It is a climbing shrub so it will need some support as it grows taller.
What kind of soil does a monstera need?
Peat-based soil is ideal for monsters when it is grown indoors. When it is grown outdoors, you can use sandy, loamy or clay soil with an acidic or neutral pH. It requires soil that drains adequately.
How much light does a monstera need?
Monstera will thrive in a bright room that has some shade. Direct sunlight will result in damaged leaves. However, limited sunlight can reduce photosynthesis and slow down its growth.
How much water does a monstera need?
Monstera should be watered every one or two weeks so the soil will dry out between watering. This means you must ensure that the soil is dry to touch before watering again.
Does monstera need fertiliser or plant food?
You can feed monstera with a well-balanced, liquid fertiliser to the plant’s base. You should properly dilute the fertiliser with water before feeding it to the plant.
Does a monstera need pruning?
This plant can be pruned after a few years of growth. The appropriate method of pruning monstera is to cut as many stems as needed. It is done during the spring season. These stems can be replanted. You should also trim overgrown roots or tuck them back into the pot.
Monstera helps with air quality in your home
Monstera plants are popular house plants that have proven to be of benefit in various ways.
Purification: Monstera can purify the air. It has been proven that broad-leaved plants such as monstera can remove harmful substances circulating in the air.
Where can I buy Monstera in the UK?