The Swiss cheese factory (Monstera deliciosa) is named after the oval decorative holes that expand into the leaves of the plant as it matures. Also known as cut-leaf or split-leaf philodendron, this plant is a tropical vine that is often cultivated indoors as a houseplant. In the wild, vines are individual leaves that grow 3 feet long and can grow up to 30 feet long. This vine grows very rapidly but can include the following method to get the fastest growth if it is planted in a container.
Temperature
Monstera deliciosa is a tropical vine. As such, it should be cultivated outdoors in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) cultivation area 10a-11. It doesn't work at freezing temperatures. During the growing season, the room temperature should be kept around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and the resting (winter) temperature should be 50-60 degrees.
Water
Monstera deliciosa needs to be watered enough to keep the soil slightly moist. In most conditions, this means watering once a week during the growing season. Container plants may need to be sprinkled more frequently than outdoor plants. This tropical plant does not tolerate cold water, so use lukewarm water or room temperature water. Reduce watering once every 10 days in winter. This vine also likes moist temperatures and can benefit from daily fog or a nearby humidifier.
Soil and fertilizer
Swiss cheese factories thrive on well-drained alkaline soils. Soil with added peat moss and sand, or commercially available potting soil sold for African violets, works well. Newly planted vines should be given bi-monthly with low doses of balanced (6-6-6) fertilizer. Established Monstera deliciosa grapes do not need to be fertilized frequently. A quarter is enough. Please note that Monstera deliciosa has a soft root.
Light
Swiss cheese factories prefer filtered or indirect sunlight, as bright and hot sunlight can burn and blacken the delicate leaves of the plant. If you are planting a vine outdoors, it works well under a tree. Indoors, place the vine near a window that is exposed to the shade of the morning sun and afternoon, or near a window facing south.
Repotting
Your Monstera plant will be repotted every two to three years. Always choose a deep pot that matches the size of your plant. Signs to transplant Monstera roots growing out of drainage holes, stunted growth, or insufficient drainage.
If you want to stimulate growth, choose a larger container. If you are going to keep the plant the same size but need to refresh the soil for planting, repot in the same container.
Here is a quick guide to replanting Monstera:
Remove the plant carefully from the existing container.
Remove as much soil as possible from the roots and check for signs of rot or root damage.
Cut off damaged or diseased roots. When transplanting into the same container, trim the roots to prevent the plant from becoming roots.
Pour fresh, moist soil into a new container, making sure the plant is planted at the same height as before.
Fill the remaining space with potting soil, peat, and perlite mixture and press down gently on the stems for support.
Problem
Monstera deliciosa is a toxic plant and should not be placed on leaves where pets can easily bite. It is also a very strict grower, so you need to support it with stakes or tie the vine to a grid. Outdoor plants can be trained to wrap trees and other arboretums.
If you like reading this article you can also check 10 Best Indoor Plants for Decoration
Commentaires