ORNAMENTAL

Monstera deliciosa: a beginner’s guide

Featured Photo by Mar Núñez on Unsplash.

Ornamentals have been in the market’s spotlight nowadays, and there’s one plant that has been the talk of the town. Monstera varieties are not only nice to look at, they are also easy to care for, making them a great starter plant for novice gardeners.

If you’d like to grow one, the first step is to study basic monstera care like checking whether or not a monstera can thrive in your garden or home. Here are some things that you’ll need to take note of before buying one:  

Sun requirement

Monsteras love indirect light and humidity. They can tolerate low light and can thrive in bright, indirect light. Keep your monsteras away from direct sun to avoid burning their beautiful leaves. Rotate the pot from time to time so it would grow evenly.

Water requirement  

Watering a monstera varies depending on the weather condition. During summer, give them enough water as soon as the soil dries out. Having a humidifier is also recommended to avoid their leaves turning brown and crisp and to keep them from gathering dust. Otherwise, you can mist them in the early morning.

Potting your monstera

Proper drainage is vital to any plant. Make sure to use pots with drain holes underneath to avoid overwatering.  A well-draining medium that includes peat moss, potting soil, and a piece of wood is recommended. Monsteras grow fast and may need regular repotting. Use planters that are two inches larger than your plant. Repotting may be performed every year or when it already requires a transfer.

Signs of underwatering

You’ll know that monstera lacks water when its foliage turns yellow. If this happens, practice the bottom soak method. Fill a small tub with lukewarm water. Put the monstera planter in it and let it soak for 30 to 45 minutes for a small to medium plant and an hour and a half up to two hours for a larger monstera. Drain the water afterward and let the plant rest for less than an hour before returning it to its place.

Signs of overwatering

One thing to check for if your plant is overwatered is when the base turns brown and pulpy. Don’t fret, you can still revive it. First, remove the plant from its soil and check its roots for any presence of black or brown colors in roots that will smell like fungi. If this is the case, remove the dark-colored roots and kill the bacteria by spraying the plant with peroxide mixed with water. Repot with new soil.

When it comes to fertilizing, the plant specialists say that it is your choice whether or not you fertilize your monstera. Just make sure to feed them with organic food as much as possible. 

Monstera varieties can be pricey due to the rising demand for them, but they are also an easy plant that can adorn your home with. It can also provide healthier air and a greener indoor environment.

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Agriculture Monthly magazine is the Philippines' best-selling magazine on all things agriculture. It is packed with information and inspiration on how to make the most of your farm or garden.

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