Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera) Care: Light, Water, Support & Propagation

Monstera Basics

Tropical vine with iconic perforated leaves. Needs warmth, humidity, bright indirect light, well-draining soil. Not frost-hardy. Grows best on a moss pole or trellis.

Repotting & Support

• Repot up one size in rich mix (compost + peat). Loosen roots.
• Add moss pole at repotting. Tie stems with soft ties.
• Mist pole regularly to encourage aerial root attachment.

Pruning

Trim when too tall or aerial roots unruly. Any time.

Propagation

• Stem cuttings: Cut below node, remove lower leaf. Root in water 2–3 weeks, then pot. Or plant directly in soil.
• Air layering: Wrap damp moss around stem at aerial root/node. Enclose in plastic bag with vents. Roots in months. Cut and pot.
• Suckers: Divide foot-long sections, press into soil.