Indoor monstera care guide

How to care for your monstera

Monstera are easy going, but like any plant they need a few core things to survive. Below, we’ve listed all of their basic care tips, teaching you everything you need to know to help them thrive. Or visit our plant guides hub for all the info you need to keep your plants happy and thriving.

1. Water occasionally

The reason that so many people love the monsteras is because they don’t really need much water to survive. So don’t worry if you skip waterings from time to time. This plant won’t make you feel bad. It only needs water every 1-2 weeks and actually prefers its soil to dry out between drinks. If you pop your monstera in a bright spot, you may need to water it slightly more frequently.

But wherever you put yours, just remember to check that the soil has dried out well before watering again. You can do this by sticking your finger or a wooden skewer 2 inches into the soil. If it comes out clean, it’s time to water it. If there’s any soil residue, wait a little longer.

2. Bright, indirect light

Monsteras are a tropical plant, so they’re no stranger to sunlight. But in nature, they grow on forest floors, meaning that they usually only spend a few hours in the sun each day. It’s why they’ve developed holes in their leaves. So they have a bigger area to catch the sun rays with, without having to grow too much. This is also what led to them being nicknamed the “Swiss Cheese Plant”.

Because this plant is so chilled, it’ll be comfortable in bright light, or a shaded area. The best option is to give your monstera a bit of both. So that they can enjoy the sunshine some days but also have a bit of shade. They’ll adjust to most lights, making them a super flexible indoor plant.

3. Regular misting

As they’re native to the tropical forests in Central America, it’s important that you up the humidity around your monstera. Because they can’t get enough moisture from the air in the UK. So you’ll need to do your best to recreate their natural habitat.

Regular misting is the easiest way to do this. All you’ll need is grab a spray bottle and give them a mist every day or so. Or if you have an electric humidifier, this’ll do the trick too.

4. Plant food for a growth spurt

Because monsteras will happily grow in most conditions, they don't need to be fertilized or fed. Indoors, monstera deliciosa care is pretty straightforward. Since they don’t have to compete for food and water like they would in their natural environment. But if you want yours to grow as tall as possible, adding plant food into their soil can help give them a growth spurt.

A bit of history about the monstera

Originating in the forests of Southern Mexico, the monstera gets its name from the Latin word abnormal, because of its holey leaves that make it especially unique. Its distinct appearance is perfect for creating a chilled, tropical vibe. So it’s often used in designs for beach towels, bathrooms and home decorations.

Since being discovered in the Mexican forests close to Panama, the swiss cheese plant has been introduced to many other tropical islands. And it’s thriving in countries like Hawaii, the Seychelles and Ascension Island.

The main reason that the monstera became domesticated was for its fruit. That’s actually how it got the name deliciosa - after about 3 years of growth, the plant produces the delicious Mexican breadfruit. It’s said to taste a bit like pineapple. But the rest of the monstera plant is harmful if eaten. So make sure you keep yours away from any pets.

Different types of Monstera plant

Although the monstera deliciosa is the most popular variety of this plant, there are lots of different types. Each one has its own specific care needs. So you’ll need to figure out what works best for yours. These are some of the popular monstera houseplant varieties:

1. Monstera deliciosa

If you’re looking for a monstera plant, this variety is the one you’re most likely to come across. It’s the type we sell too. Their large, holey leaves add flair and a contemporary vibe to any indoor space.

2. Variegated monsteras

Variegated monsteras are really similar to the monstera deliciosa. But their green and white coloured flecks make the leaves stand out even more. It almost looks as if they’ve been painted. This type doesn’t grow naturally in the wild though. So it can be really tricky to get your hands on one.

3. Monstera adansonii

If you’re looking for a smaller variety of the traditional monstera - one that’ll have more of a draped look - then the monstera adansonii is for you. Without support, it’ll start growing out and down the sides of its pot. And while monstera adansonii plants have more compact leaves, they still have the same large, dramatic holes.

4. Monstera dubia

The dubia is also a small version of the monstera plant. But these are much more dainty than the original and have lighter, heart shaped leaves. If left unsupported, they’ll hang down the sides of their pot. But what makes these plants so interesting is that when they’re placed against a moss pole or block of wood, they’ll grow upwards in a flat straight line!

5. Monstera borsigiana

The borigiana is similar to the deliciosa, but grows much faster. And it’ll keep growing as long as you let it. It’s beautiful leaves are actually smaller than the deliciosa, but because of its long stems they can sometimes appear larger.

Want more expert advice on caring for your plants? Have a read of our indoor plant care guide for everything you need to know.

And whenever you want to treat someone to a long-lasting pressie. Or breathe new life into your own home. We’ve got lots of exciting indoor plants, from super succulents to delicate ferns!