Monstera Deliciosa Care: Light, Water, and Soil Secrets

The Monstera deliciosa is the queen of the indoor jungle. But how do you get those massive, split leaves (fenestrations)?

1. Light: The Secret to Splits

Monstera can survive in medium light, but it won’t split.

• The Sweet Spot: Bright, Indirect Light. Put it near an East window or 3-5 feet from a South window.
• The Sign: Small, solid heart-shaped leaves? It needs more light.

2. Water: Let It Breathe

These plants grow on trees in nature (hemiepiphytes). They hate wet feet.

• Rule: Wait until the top 2-3 inches of soil are bone dry.
• Signs: Drooping = Thirsty. Yellowing lower leaves = Drowning.

3. Soil: Chunky is Best

Do not use standard dense potting soil.

• The Mix: 60% Potting Soil + 20% Perlite + 20% Orchid Bark.
• Why? This mimics the forest floor and lets oxygen reach the thick roots.

4. Support: The Moss Pole

In the wild, they climb trees. Indoors, they need a moss pole or cedar plank.

• Action: Attach the stem (not the leaf stems!) to the pole using velcro ties. This triggers the plant to produce larger leaves.