The Monstera adansonii is commonly known as the Swiss Cheese Plant – due to its heart shaped leaves with holes that resemble swiss cheese. Native to South America, but popular around the world as a beautiful low-maintenance houseplant.

How to care for your Monstera adansonii

Light

Even though this plant is native to the jungles of central and southern america, it still does require ample lighting to thrive. In your home, place your plant in a well lit area, roughly 2 feet away from direct sunlight. Direct sunlight will burn the leaves.

Water

This can be a little trickier when caring for your adansonii. This plant likes moist soil but requires good drainage. Keep the soil slightly moist, and when watering, water thoroughly. How often you water will depend on your plants location in your home – how much light, humidity, wind etc,

Soil

Its important to have a well draining potting mix to avoid root rot. A mix of bark, perlite, charcoal and peat moss is an ideal combination. If you don’t have bark, wood chips will suffice.

Fertilising

The adansonii is an avid grower and to sustain good growth, a monthly fertiliser is recommended.
Use a balanced liquid fertiliser e.g. NPK 20-20-20 every month during the ‘weekly’ watering.

Propagation

Propagation of the Swiss Cheese plant is straightforward. A cutting placed in water or perlite, is the most effective.