The Monstera plant is a beautiful addition to any room, and with the right care it can thrive for years. With its big, green leaves and delicate vines, it's no wonder this plant has become so popular.

In this article we will cover the basics of Monstera care, as well as some specific routines for the Mini Monstera and Swiss Cheese Monstera plants. Whether you're a first-time Monstera owner or just looking for some extra guidance, read on for all the information you need to take care of your plant!

Monstera Basic Care Routine

The Monstera, sometimes referred to as the Swiss Cheese Monstera is a tropical plant, so it prefers warm and humid conditions. It should be kept in temperatures between 65-85°F and away from cold drafts or air conditioning. It also needs bright but indirect light, preferably near an east-facing window or filtered light in a south-facing one.

Watering your Monstera correctly is key to its health and growth. Generally speaking, you want the soil of your Monstera to stay moist but not wet. To know when to water, stick your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle - if it's damp then you don't need to water yet. Letting the top inch of soil dry out before watering again will help you find the right balance.

Swiss Cheese Monsteras prefer a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A potting mix specifically for African Violets or Houseplants is a good option, or you can make your own by 1/3 potting soil, 1/3 peat moss, and 1/3 perlite or vermiculite. These plants like nutrient rich soil but don’t require any additional fertilizer unless you have very poor soil.

Mini Monstera Care Routine

Caring for a Mini Monstera isn't too different from caring for a classic monstera. The main difference is that you will need to water it more often as its smaller pot means that the soil dries out quicker. Aim for once per week, or every 5-7 days, and make sure all the excess water drains out of the bottom, as the plant does not respond well to overwatering.

You should also give your Mini Monstera regular misting to make sure it is receiving enough humidity. This can be done with a spray bottle, or by placing the pot on top of a shallow tray filled with pebbles and a bit of water.

Additionally, consider positioning your Mini Monstera near an east-facing window or in a south-facing one protected by some sort of filter. This smaller variety of monstera requires slightly brighter light compared to its larger counterpart – but still ensure that it's indirect and diffuse, as direct sunlight can burn leaves.

Common Diseases for Monstera

The most common disease affecting Monsteras is root rot, which is caused by overwatering. To prevent it, make sure to always let the soil dry out between waterings and keep an eye on your plant for any signs of wilting or yellowing leaves. If you spot any, give your Monstera a few days without water to allow the roots to recover.

Another disease that can affect Monsteras is bacterial soft rot. This is caused by too much moisture in the soil, so make sure there are drainage holes in your pot and never leave standing water at the bottom. It's also important to avoid getting too much water on the leaves as this can lead to fungal problems like powdery mildew or leaf spot disease.

Monstera plants can also be susceptible to botrytis, a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves and stems. To prevent this, ensure your plant is getting enough air circulation, as well as proper drainage and adequate sunlight.

By following the basic care advice outlined above for Monsteras, you’ll be able to provide your plant with the best environment possible for it to thrive. With enough light, humidity and water, your Monstera will grow to be a beautiful addition to your home.