Monstera adansonii, Broken Heart Plant, Swiss Cheese Vine

Selling Size: Single Plant | 2.5″ Pot included

Caring for your Monstera adansonii, also known as the “Broken Heart Plant” or “Swiss Cheese Vine,” is relatively straightforward.

Here’s a guide to keep your Monstera adansonii, Broken Heart Plant, Swiss Cheese Vine plant thriving:

Light:

• Bright, indirect sunlight is ideal. Think of the light it would receive under the canopy of a tree in its native tropical habitat.
• Avoid direct sunlight, especially harsh afternoon sun, as it can scorch the leaves. An east or west-facing window with filtered light is usually perfect. A north-facing window can also work if the plant is placed close to the glass.
• Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth (long stems with few leaves) and may prevent the development of the characteristic holes (fenestrations) in the leaves.

Water:

• Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Use your finger to check the moisture level.
• Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
• Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Then, empty the drainage tray.
• Reduce watering in the winter when the plant’s growth slows down.

Soil:

• Use a well-draining potting mix. A peat-based mix with perlite or sand added to improve drainage is suitable. An aroid mix also works well.
• Slightly acidic to neutral pH is preferred.

Temperature and Humidity:

• Ideal temperatures range from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C). Avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
• Monstera adansonii thrives in high humidity (above 50%). If your home has dry air, especially during winter:
  • Mist the leaves regularly with lukewarm water, ideally in the morning to allow the leaves to dry.
  • Use a humidifier.
  • Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water (ensure the bottom of the pot is above the water line).
  • Group plants together to create a more humid microclimate.

Fertilizer:

• Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer monthly during the growing season (spring through summer).
• Reduce or stop fertilizing in the fall and winter.
• Avoid fertilizing immediately after repotting. The new soil usually contains some nutrients.

Pruning:

• Prune in spring or early summer to maintain the plant’s shape and size.
• Remove any yellow, brown, or damaged leaves.
• Pruning can also encourage bushier growth.

Climbing/Support:

• Monstera adansonii is a vining plant and will benefit from support such as a moss pole, trellis, or stake to climb on. This mimics their natural growth habit and can encourage larger leaf development and more pronounced fenestrations.

Cleaning:

• Dust the leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to allow the plant to photosynthesize efficiently.

Repotting:

• Repot every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound (roots circling the inside of the pot or growing out of the drainage holes).
• Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Repotting is best done in the spring.

Propagation:

• Monstera adansonii is easy to propagate through stem cuttings.
  1. Take a cutting with at least one node (the bump on the stem where leaves or aerial roots grow). A cutting with 2-3 nodes is ideal.
  2. You can root the cutting in water or directly in moist potting mix.
     • In water: Place the cutting in a clean jar of water, ensuring the node is submerged. Change the water every few days. Once roots are a few inches long (typically within a few weeks), plant it in potting soil.
     • In soil: Plant the cutting directly into a small pot of moist, well-draining potting mix, burying at least one node. You can use rooting hormone to encourage root development. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or place it in a propagation box to maintain humidity. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
  3. Place the cutting in a warm, bright location with indirect light.

Common Problems:

• Yellowing leaves: Can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies. Adjust your watering habits and consider repotting or fertilizing.
• Brown leaf tips/edges: Often a sign of low humidity or inconsistent watering (letting the soil dry out too much). Increase humidity and ensure consistent watering.
• Leggy growth (small, solid leaves without holes): Usually due to insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight.
• Root rot: Caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Ensure the pot drains well and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Pests: Watch out for common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and scale. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

By providing the right conditions and care, your Monstera adansonii, Broken Heart Plant, Swiss Cheese Vine will be a beautiful and rewarding addition to your indoor plant collection.