Let split-leaf foliage add a touch of drama and undeniable charm to your garden. Yeah, we are talking about Monstera Adansonii, a captivating vine better known as the Swiss Cheese Plant. But keeping this beauty healthy and growing requires more than just admiration.
So, here we are with expert tips to keep your leafy beauty happy and shiny.
|
Feature |
Description |
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Botanical Name |
Monstera adansonii |
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Common Names |
Swiss Cheese Plant, Adanson's Monstera, Five Holes Plant, and Money Mask Plant |
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Origin |
Central and South America, West Indies |
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Habit |
Hemi-epiphytic vine |
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Toxicity |
Toxic for infants and pets |
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Leaf Shape |
Heart-shaped with deep oval-shaped perforations |
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Leaf Size |
Up to 8 inches long on mature plants |
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Leaf Color |
Deep green, glossy |
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Growth Rate |
Moderate |
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Mature Height (indoors) |
3-5 feet |
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Mature Height (outdoors) |
Up to 13 feet |
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Light Preference |
Bright, indirect sunlight |
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Watering Needs |
Water when the top inch of soil dries out |
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Soil Preference |
Well-draining potting mix |
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Special Needs |
May benefit from a moss pole or trellis for climbing |
Origin Story:
Monstera Adansonii is native to Central and South America. Its presence extends from southern Mexico to parts of Bolivia.
Native Habits:
Due to its warmer origin, this charismatic beauty grows well in warm and highly humid environments with a natural canopy of plants.
Monstera Swiss Cheese can cling to large trees using its aerial roots. Meanwhile, it also establishes itself in the soil on the forest floor, often growing as a hemi-epiphyte.
Common Name:
The name of the Swiss Cheese Plant comes from its heart-shaped leaves that develop holes called fenestrations.
So, fenestration is a natural process. It's not due to any deficiency but a sign of plants' healthy growth.
Choosing the Right Spot for Your Monstera Swiss Cheese
Choose a spot that is airy and offers an ample amount of light. Here are some quick guidelines on keeping the plant shining bright:
Light:
Place your green beauty near an east or west-facing window where it can get filtered sunlight. These plants require at least 8 hours of bright indirect light.
If it gets more than 8 hours of bright light, the leaf might turn yellow. In the same manner, too little light can hinder fenestrations, turning them into smaller, solid leaves with a less developed "Swiss cheese" appearance.
Temperature:
Monstera Adansonii is a tropical plant that prefers warmer environments. It is suitable for most average home temperatures. However, avoid putting it near vents, cold drafts, and air conditioners.
Insidious Tip: Avoid letting the temperature drop below 50°F (10°C), as the plant can struggle in colder environments
Humidity:
Mimicking the natural climate from Monstera's origin, 60% and higher humidity work better. This can be challenging in drier climates or during winter months, so it's suggested to keep the plant in with other humidity-loving plants for optimal growth.
The Perfect Pot and Soil Mix for Your Monstera Adansonii
Consider peat-based soil mixtures that lock in moisture but avoid waterlogging. Here are some considerations for a flourishing, lush plant with healthy roots:
Choosing the Right Pot:
Opt for a pot made of a breathable material like terracotta or ceramic. These materials maintain air circulation and prevent root rot. Furthermore, you can go with a plastic pot (not recommended) with a drainage hole.
Pro Tip: Consider placing your potted Monstera on a saucer with elevated pebbles. This allows for drainage while preventing the plant from sitting in water.
Creating the Dreamy Soil Mix:
Monstera Adansonii Variegata requires a dense and moisture-retaining soil mixture. Here's a recipe for creating the perfect soil haven:
- Base: High-quality potting mix - 50%
- Drainage Boosters: Perlite or orchid bark - 25% (improves aeration and drainage)
- Moisture Retention: Coco coir or worm castings - 25% (provides some moisture but allows drainage)
Now mix it up, and you will be ready to grow the lush foliage of Monstera adansonii.
Remember: Avoid using garden soil directly, as it can be too dense and retain too much moisture.
Repotting:
Repot your Monstera Adansonii Aurea every 1-2 years. Refrain from repotting too frequently, or you will end up with a dead plant. Furthermore, always use a one- or two-meter wider pot. This will allow your plant to adjust quickly and keep its focus on growth.
Quenching Your Monstera Adansonii's Thirst with H2O Harmony
As we discussed earlier, Monstera Adansonii variegated loves moisture. Here are some watering rules to keep your greeny buddy swinging and singing:
Finger Check:
Simply stick your finger into the soil, about an inch deep. If it feels dry, it's time to water it. If it is moist, wait for a day or two before watering it again.
Watering Thoroughly:
Every time you water this plant, make sure to water thoroughly. You already have a good soil mix, so let the water drip out of the drainage hole. It will ensure each root of your plant gets a good drink.
Empty the Drainage Tray:
After each drink, check the drainage tray and empty it right away. Like us humans, it doesn't appreciate constantly wet feet!.
Best Fertilizer For Your Monstera Plant
Monstera Adansonii care includes some fertilization, too. Although this plant isn't a heavy feeder, fertilization in growing seasons is a plus.
Fertilization Schedule:
Aim for a balanced fertilization every 4 to 6 weeks during the spring and summer (growing seasons).
Fertilization Type:
Use water-soluble fertilizer. Look for an equal ratio NPK fertilizer. Moreover, you can use house-plant fertilizers and organic fertilizers.
Application Tips:
- Mix weak fertilizer with water (dilute!)
- Water as usual; skip extra watering
- No spraying leaves with fertilizer
Pruning and Training Techniques to Shape Your Monstera Adansonii
Caring for an Monstera Adansonii includes a little pruning and climbing techniques. No! It will not hurt your plant. Instead, it will guide your plant in using its nutrients wisely. Here are some quick tips for pruning and training your plant
Pruning:
- Prune when you see leggy growth.
- Don't over-prune your plant.
- Avoid pruning ⅓ part of the plant at a time.
Training:
- Use a moss pole to grow your Monstera Adansonii variegata vertically.
- You can also use a stake for vertical support. Place one or two stakes near the base of your Monstera.
- A trellis can be another option, especially for larger Monstera. Position the trellis in the pot and secure the stems to it. As they grow, guide them in the direction you desire.
Identifying Common Pests and Problems
Monstera Adansonii is a low-maintenance plant, but unwanted guests (pests) can cause trouble. Identifying these problems and treating your plant early on can save it from major problems.
Pests:
Monstera Swiss Cheese can commonly encounter mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Some of these suck sap from leaves, while others make webs on leaves, destroying your plant's appearance.
Solution:
Isolate your plant and use insecticidal soap spray or neem oil. Repeat this process every two days until your plant is pest-free.
Leaf Problems:
Monstera Adansonii yellow leaves, curling, dark spots on leaves, and lack of fenestration are some of the casual issues your plant faces. The reason can be lack of sunlight, nutrition deficiency, or water logging.
Solution:
Watch your watering habits, fertilization, and plant spots. By following the above guidelines, there will be no problem at all.
Propagating Monstera Adansonii Like an Expert
Time to propagate Monstera plants and grow more baby plants. Well, you can use leftover stems after purging for this purpose. Let's start the process:
Step 1: Stem cutting:
Take a healthy stem with 2-3 nodes from your Monstera.
Step 2: Preparing a Pot:
Use a clean pot with a fresh soil mixture. Dip your newly cut stem in rooting hormone (optional). It will improve root growth.
Step 3: Watering:
Usually, water this plant thoroughly. Maintain a moist soil, but avoid making it soggy. You will see root growth within 4 to 6 weeks.
Step 4: Transplanting:
Once the roots are well-developed, pot it with fresh mix!
FAQ
Does Monstera Adansoni like sunlight?
Yes, Monstera likes bright, filtered sunlight. At least 8 hours of light is optimal for its happiness and thriving.
Is Monstera Adansonii poisonous?
Yes, Monstera Adansonii is considered mildly toxic to humans and pets.
How rare is a Monstera Adansonii Aurea?
Monstera Adansonii Aurea is relatively rare due to its unique appearance. However, you can find it on our Monstera collection page.
Why aren't my Monstera Adansonii leaves getting split?
It can be due to a lack of sunlight. Change your plant's spot so that it gets ample sunlight.
Should I fertilize my Monstera Adansonii?
For sure! But fertilize it during active growing seasons (summers and springs) and use a balanced fertilizer.
Final Thoughts:
The plant is cute and aesthetically pleasing. All you need to do is care for it from time to time, and you will see how this plant fixes your stress and improves your ambiance.
Moreover, it will boost your mood and improve the quality of the air. So, are you ready to start your Monstera journey? Check out our selection of healthy Monstera Adansonii at MyGreenScape!