Monstera houseplant on hi-spring.com
Monstera is very popular houseplant. In the wild this evergreen liana is found in South America and Eastern India. Due to the resistance to environmental conditions, and the unusual shape of the leaves, Monstera is very popular among fans of exotic houseplants.
Monstera – the main species
As a rule, there are three main types of Monstera, popular for growing at home. They include:
- Monstera deliciosa in the young age doesn’t have holes on the leaves. With aging, the leaves cover with holes and the mature Monstera deliciosa has completely split leaves.
- Monstera deliciosa Variegate is differentiated by white or creamy spots on the leaves.
- Monstera oblique is the smallest type of the plant. It has asymmetrical leaves with oblong holes. This type of Monstera forms many aerial roots, so for the normal growth the plant should be supported with the beam.
How to care
Monstera should be handled correctly for constant growth and blooming. The main recommendations are related to the terms of irrigation, lighting, humidity, temperature and fertilizing.
- Temperature
Monstera feels quite comfortable at regular indoor temperature (14-16 ° C). Also the plant perfectly adapts to different climate conditions, and easily grows during the heating season. But in winter the plant usually extends because of the lack of light.
- Lighting
Monstera doesn’t like direct sunlight at midday. The plant needs shading if it is in close proximity to the southern or western window. The young plants, situated on the windowsill also should be shaded.
Many people think that the best place for Monstera – is the interior space of the room, far from the window. That’s not right. Actually, Monstera is shade-tolerant, and the best place for it is that, where the light is bright, but diffused or shaded. Only in the case of correct lighting Monstera will have nice large leaves.
- Watering
Monstera has large leathery leaves which don’t evaporate much water. So, Monstera’s watering should be abundant, but it is necessary to wait until the topsoil is dry.
Air humidity
Monstera likes moist air, optimally 50-60%. The plant should be sprayed regularly, as at home the air humidity, as a rule, is lower, than in the natural conditions. Also Monstera leaves should be washed, wiped with a sponge or even polished from time to time.
If Monstera is places near the radiator, the tips of the leaves will get dry and the plant will be covered with spots. So, it is better to move the plant away from the radiator or close the radiator with wet sheet.
Monstera is very simple in handling. It rapidly grows, and in 3-4 years takes approximately two square meters of the room. Due to that Monstera is the best plant for offices or other large rooms (like hallway or lobby). During the growth, Monstera needs support of the aerial roots (for example, a pipe covered with moss).
It’s better not to place Monstera in the aisle, as it leaves can be torn. Also the plant is poor under cold drafts and it’s leaves cover with brown spots.