How To Propagate Monstera Plants

1. Dappled Sunlight: In their native rainforest habitats, Monstera plants grow beneath the canopy of larger trees. This provides them with dappled sunlight, allowing them to receive indirect light that’s filtered through the foliage above. This environment helps prevent direct sun exposure that could potentially scorch their leaves.

2. Warm and Humid Climate: Monstera plants flourish in warm, humid climates. The high humidity levels in the rainforest provide the moisture they need to thrive. This humidity not only supports their growth but also helps keep their large, fenestrated leaves healthy and vibrant.  For this reason, I like to use a mister and mist my plants every week.  A spray bottle will work fine, but I use a chargeable automatic mister, it makes it easier when you have a lot of plants to mist.

3. Well-Draining Soil: The soil in their natural habitat is rich, organic, and well-draining. This allows excess water to escape, preventing waterlogged roots. The nutrient-rich soil contributes to their robust growth and lush appearance.

4. Epiphytic Growth: Monstera plants in their native environment often exhibit epiphytic growth, meaning they can grow on trees and other surfaces without relying on the soil. They use their aerial roots to cling to trees and extract nutrients from rainwater, debris, and decaying matter that accumulates on the trees’ surfaces.

5. Constant Growth and Vines: Monstera plants are known for their vining growth habit. In the rainforest, they can grow quite tall by attaching themselves to trees and climbing upwards toward the available light. As they ascend, they produce new leaves, unfurling and expanding to maximize their access to sunlight.  Using support for them to climb up will make your plant happy.  I decided to use a moss stick as the plant seemed too heavy for bamboo canes, and I like how the moss stick blends in with the green plant.

6. Natural Fenestration: The iconic split leaves of Monstera plants serve a purpose beyond aesthetics. In their native environment, these fenestrations help the leaves withstand heavy rain by allowing water to pass through. Additionally, the gaps in the leaves reduce wind resistance, preventing damage during storms.

7. Air Purification and Canopy Protection: Monstera plants contribute to their rainforest ecosystem by helping to purify the air and maintaining a healthy balance within the forest. They also provide shelter for smaller creatures and contribute to the overall biodiversity of their habitat.

Understanding how Monstera plants thrive in their native environment can guide your care practices if you’re cultivating one indoors. Replicating some of these conditions, such as providing bright, indirect light, maintaining higher humidity levels, and using well-draining soil, can contribute to the health and vitality of your Monstera as it grows in your home.