Monstera cultivation techniques and precautions

Monstera has become a leader among indoor plants for its unique leaf shape, powerful air purification ability and low maintenance difficulty. The following are the cultivation tips and precautions for Monstera.

1. Lighting management

Monstera prefers a semi-shaded environment and is suitable for being placed in a place with bright scattered light, such as by the window of the living room or bedroom. Avoid direct sunlight in summer to prevent leaf burns. In winter, you can increase the light appropriately to help leaf growth.

2. Watering Tips

Monstera likes a humid environment, but not waterlogged. Spring and autumn are the peak growth periods, and you can water the plant every 2-3 days. During the high temperatures of summer, water once a day in the morning and evening, but avoid watering at noon. Growth is slow in winter, so watering once a week is sufficient. When watering, water thoroughly until water flows out from the bottom of the pot.

3. Fertilization method

Spring and autumn are the peak growth periods for Monstera, and you can apply thin liquid fertilizer every 1-2 weeks. When the temperature is high in summer and low in winter, fertilization should be reduced or stopped. When repotting every spring, you can add organic fertilizer to the bottom of the pot as base fertilizer.

4. Soil Selection

Monstera is suitable for loose, fertile and well-drained soil. You can mix leaf mold, garden soil and sandy soil in a ratio of 1:1:1. This soil has good air permeability and water retention, and is suitable for the growth of Monstera.

5. Temperature Management

Monstera is suitable for growing in a warm environment, and the most suitable temperature is 15℃-25℃. When the temperature drops below 5℃ in winter, it should be moved indoors to keep warm.

6. Pruning and shaping

Monstera grows quickly and requires regular pruning. You can cut off the dense leaves and long branches to maintain the natural beauty of the plant. If you want the stems to grow quickly, you can moderately trim the aging leaves at the bottom.

7. Pest and disease control

A common disease of Monstera is gray spot, which can be controlled by spraying 1000 times diluted 70% thiophanate. Common insect pests are scale insects, which can be killed by spraying 1000 times diluted 40% oxydemeton-methyl emulsion.

8. Repotting and propagation

Monstera grows quickly and needs to be repotted every spring. When repotting, you can remove some of the old soil and dead roots and add new soil and base fertilizer. Propagation can be carried out by division or cuttings.

In summary, everyone needs to pay attention when raising Monstera that the juice is irritating and can cause discomfort if it comes into contact with the skin or is accidentally ingested, so avoid contact with wounds or accidental ingestion. Monstera prefers higher air humidity and the leaves need to be sprayed with water frequently in summer to keep them moist.