The first indoor plant I ever purchased was a beautiful Monstera. I purchased her as a small, infant plant from the plant nursery in Stirling, South Australia. I still have her today. She stands well over a meter tall, with the most amazing glossy shades. I adore her heart shaped leaves and how they move to face the sun. She sits proud in my kitchen, soaking up the warm filtered light that streams in through my large window.
Originating from Central America, she has been idolized for years for her natural leaf holes, vine like behavior and resiliency. A tropical plant, she thrives in humidity so is suitable to grow in the bathroom. However, she will be happy in normal room humidity. If you are comfortable, she will be comfortable - preferring temperatures between 18 - 30 degrees.
Like all indoor house plants, the Monstera thrives in a soil that drains well. See our Potting Mixes for Indoor Plants. Over watering is an absolute no. She does not like having wet feet - who really does, right? Ensure watering only occurs every one to two weeks, allowing the soil to dry out in between watering.
The Monstera is unique in that they throw aerial roots. Do not stress, simply wrap these aerial roots around a moss pole or cut them off. They are not essential to the life of the plant, they simply help them grow up trees in the wild. However, if you choose to keep the aerial roots, this will help you train your Monstera as she grows, and she will grow! She will give to you, as you give to her.
We suggest treating any pests seen on your Monstera with our natural pesticide Protect, by We the Wild.
To take the nervousness out of committing to your first house plant, purchase a Monstera. She will teach you how to care for your future indoor house plants. You will be able to make mistakes with her without being punished too severely.
Comments