Swiss Cheese Monstera Plant Care tips
INSIDE : Learn important Swiss Cheese Monstera Plant Care tips like their watering needs and best light requirements! Check out how to grow healthy trailing Monstera adansonii with beautifully delicate leaves.
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I am drawn to plants with leaves that make me swoon. Can’t stop with Variegated Rubber Plants, Angel Wing Begonias or Hoya Obovata Spalsh for that very reason. And if there is a chance that you feel the same way, GET READY because the Monster Swiss Cheese plant’s leaves are incredible on every level!
The delicate holes that form in the Swiss Cheese plant are very reminiscent of the holes that are in their much larger family member the Monstera Deliciosa. Also a beautiful plant, but get ready for it to grow grow grow and take up half your living room.
How to care for Swiss Cheese Plant
What are the best growing conditions for Monstera adansonii ?
Monstera adansonii thrive in bright, indirect light. They like warm temperatures with moderate to high humidity and well-draining soil. However, I live in New Mexico and mine does so well here… so they are very adaptive plants!
How often should I water my Swiss Cheese Monstera plant?
The ideal watering frequency for your Swiss Cheese Monstera (Monstera adansonii) depends on several factors, including the size of the pot, the type of soil and the temperature and humidity of your environment.
As a general rule, allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This prevents root rot, a common problem for overwatered Monsteras. However, be cautious not to let the soil dry out completely, as this can stress the plant.
I find watering my Swiss Cheese Monstera about once a week, is ideal for allowing the soil to dry out but not get too dry.
I occasionally give my plant a light mist using this gorgeous green spray bottle and leave it out on the counter because it's so pretty.
During the warmer months, you may need to water more frequently – while in the cooler months, you can reduce the watering intervals.
Do Swiss Cheese plants like full sun?
No, Swiss Cheese plants do not prefer full sun. While they enjoy bright light, too much direct sunlight can burn their delicate leaves. The ideal lighting condition for these plants is near a window, but not in a window.
Avoid placing your plant in a location that receives direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can lead to leaf damage and eventually stunted growth.
Check out my post for Best Sunlight Levels for your plants.
What supplies do I need to grow a Monstera adansonii Plant?
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Do Monstera Adansonii plants like to climb or hang?
Monstera Adansonii plants are climbers by nature. They prefer to climb vertical structures, such as moss poles, trellises or even the walls of your home.
While they can be grown as hanging plants (as shown above), they tend to produce larger leaves when provided with a climbing support. This allows their roots to anchor securely and their stems to grow upward, maximizing their growth potential.
I’ve never added any structure to my Monstera adansonii and mine have all done really well in pots. So, no matter which growing route you take – your plant should be happy!
Are Swiss Cheese plants poisonous to animals?
Yes, Swiss Cheese plants (Monstera adansonii) are toxic to cats and dogs. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are needle-like structures that can irritate the mouth, throat, and digestive tract when ingested.
If your pet has consumed any part of a Swiss Cheese plant, it’s important to contact your local vet immediately. Symptoms of poisoning may include excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing and pawing at the mouth.
What are popular Swiss Cheese varieties?
There are several popular varieties of Swiss Cheese plants, each with their own unique characteristics:
- Monstera adansonii: This is the most common variety, known for its large, perforated leaves.
- Monstera adansonii var. borsigiana: This variety has smaller, more rounded leaves with fewer perforations.
- Monstera adansonii var. variegata: This rare variety features leaves with white or cream-colored variegations.
- Monstera adansonii f. laniata: This variety has deeply lobed leaves with long, narrow segments.
Each variety has its own charm and can be a beautiful addition to your home. The best variety for you will depend on your personal preferences.
Where to buy Swiss Cheese plants?
You can find Swiss Cheese plants at a variety of spots, including:
- Local nurseries and garden centers: These are often the best places to find a wide selection of plants, including different varieties of Swiss Cheese plants.
- Big-box stores: Retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Walmart often carry popular houseplants, including Swiss Cheese plants.
- Online retailers: Websites like Etsy, Amazon, and specialized plant retailers offer a variety of Swiss Cheese plants, sometimes at competitive prices.
- Plant swap meets and markets: These events can be a great way to find unique and affordable plants, including Swiss Cheese plants.
When choosing a Swiss Cheese plant, look for a healthy specimen with bright green leaves and no signs of pests or diseases.
What pests are common for Swiss Cheese plants?
Swiss Cheese plants can be susceptible to a few common pests, including:
- Mealybugs: These tiny, cottony insects can infest the plant’s stems and leaves.
- Spider mites: These tiny arachnids can cause yellowing and webbing on the leaves.
- Scale insects: These small, hard-shelled insects can suck sap from the plant.
If you notice signs of pests on your Swiss Cheese plant, it’s important to take action quickly to prevent them from spreading.
You can treat the infestation with insecticidal soap, neem oil or a natural pesticide.
It’s also important to isolate the infected plant to prevent the pests from spreading to other plants in your home.
You might be interested in some of my other Plant Care posts:
Peperomia Silver Frost Plant Care
