With its large lush, tropical dark green leaves, monstera will add a touch of the tropics to your indoor, office or living space. Monstera are great at removing toxins from the air, creating a healthier, more peaceful environment. Also known as the Fruit Salad Plant for the edible, highly fragrant fruit it produces when grown outdoors.
Planting Calendar
Prepare
Position
Monsteras are best grown in a warm, brightly lit room, out of direct sunlight. Outdoor Monstera prefer to be grown in a shaded to semi shaded position protected from the hot midday sun.
Soil
When growing indoors, plant into Kings House Plant Mix. When planted into the ground Monstera likes a free draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well.
Plant
Repot your plant in spring when the roots have filled the pot it is growing in. Plant with fresh Kings House Plant Mix into a pot that is at least 15cm larger.
Care
Watering
Monsteras prefer to dry out slightly between waterings - allow the top 5cm of soil to dry out before watering again. They will require more water in summer and less in winter. Never allow the pot to sit in water, if using a cover pot, drain well before placing it back into the pot.
Feeding
Liquid feed your monstera with Kings House Plant Liquid Food applying as per the instructions on the packet.
Spraying
Monsteras can be troubled by mealybug, spray if needed with Groventive Garden.
Pruning
If your Monstera needs pruning, it would only be to remove damaged leaves.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Beginner Tip
Periodically place your plant in the shower and hose of any dust (make sure the water is not hot). Allow the plant to dry off then spray with Yates Leaf Shine. This will give you vibrant lush leaves.
Expert Tip
Place a Coco Plant Pole in the soil when planting and gently tie the stems to the pole to train your plant to climb up it for an upright shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of light does a Monstera need?
Monsteras are best grown in a warm, brightly lit room, out of direct sunlight. Outdoor Monstera prefer to be grown in a shaded to semi shaded position protected from the hot midday sun.
How often should I water my Monstera?
Monsteras prefer to dry out slightly between waterings - allow the top 5cm of soil to dry out before watering again. They will require more water in summer and less in winter. Never allow the pot to sit in water, if using a cover pot, drain well before placing it back into the pot.
How do I fertilise my Monstera?
Liquid feed your monstera with Kings House Plant Liquid Food applying as per the instructions on the packet.
How do I support my Monstera as it grows?
Monstera plants are natural climbers. Providing a moss pole or trellis can help support their growth and mimic their natural habitat. Gently tie the stems to the support structure as they grow.
Are Monstera plants toxic to pets?
Yes, Monstera plants are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. They contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth and digestive system. Keep the plant out of reach of pets to ensure their safety.
