Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa
The Instagram-famous split leaf that's actually forgiving - as long as you get its light right. Which is where most people go wrong.
Photo: Annie Spratt / Unsplash What this plant actually wants.
Best window: East or South-East, a metre from the glass.
This is the general recommendation. When you map your actual windows in Planterra, the app compares each one against this plant's lux range and tells you which of your specific spots are best - accounting for depth from the glass, obstructions, and how the light shifts by season.
What usually goes wrong.
Yellow leaves
Almost always overwatering. Check that the top 2 cm of soil dries out between waterings. If the plant is in low light, it uses less water - you may only need to water every two weeks in winter.
Brown crispy edges
Low humidity or fluoride in tap water. Group with other plants, use filtered water, or place on a pebble tray.
No leaf splits (fenestrations)
The plant is under-lit. Splits are a bright-light response. Move closer to your best window and give it 6+ months.
Leggy stretched stems
Same cause: not enough light. Rotate 90° each week so growth stays symmetrical while you improve its position.
If you send me a Monstera photo, I'll always check: are the new leaves splitting? If yes, the light is right. If no, tell me the compass direction of the window it's near - and I'll tell you where to move it.
Add this plant to Planterra.
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