Tips and tricks for thriving monstera houseplants

With its distinctive holey leaves, Monstera is among the most popular choices for houseplant lovers. Its tropical charm and the variety of species make it a great decoration for any interior. The presence of numerous varieties, such as monstera deliciosa, monkey monstera, or monstera minima, allows everyone to choose something that suits their available space and individual preferences.

Caring for Monstera may seem challenging, but with knowledge of basic principles, anyone can enjoy its beauty for many years. The key is providing suitable conditions that mimic its natural environment. How do you care for a monstera and prevent spots from appearing on its leaves? Here's our advice.

Proper watering is essential. Monstera prefers moderate watering, which varies depending on the season. Watering once a week is sufficient in the spring and summer, while every ten days is enough in the winter. The plant does not tolerate standing water in the soil, which can lead to root rot. Therefore, it's important to water sparingly and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Monstera thrives in bright but indirect sunlight. Placing it on a well-lit windowsill can result in leaf burns and slow growth. An ideal location is a bright room with plenty of natural light but dispersed. This ensures that the monstera grows healthily and produces large, holey leaves, its greatest adornment.

Choosing the right container is crucial for growth. The pot should allow the plant to develop its root system freely, so it is best to choose one slightly larger than the current root ball. Remember, a pot that is too tight can impede the monstera’s growth.

The right soil is also important. The best is a mixture of potting soil with added perlite and peat. This combination ensures good drainage, allowing the roots to breathe freely and preventing excess moisture retention.

Fertilizing the monstera is crucial for its health and growth. It's advisable to fertilize weekly, using fertilizer intended for green plants in spring and summer. For those who prefer home remedies, a fertilizer made from banana peel and water can be a great solution. Thanks to its richness in phosphorus and potassium, such fertilizer supports the monstera’s development and stimulates its growth.

During the cultivation of monstera, problems affecting the plant's condition can occur. One of them is the appearance of spots on the leaves. The colour of the spots can indicate different issues. What do the spots on monstera leaves indicate?

The plant has been overwatered if you notice yellow spots on the leaves. Black spots may indicate the plant has been subjected to drafts. Such spots may also mean a fungal disease has affected the plant. In this case, the infected leaves should be trimmed and disposed of, and the rest of the plant should be treated with a fungicidal preparation. If brown spots appear on the leaves, it may indicate that the monstera is too dry. In this case, in addition to watering, it's also beneficial to mist the leaves.

To remove spots from monstera leaves, it's essential first to eliminate the cause of the problem. Proper care, especially with regard to watering, dust removal, misting, or choosing the right location for the plant, will ensure it develops healthily.