The Swiss cheese plant, or Monstera adansonii, gets its name from its big, heart-shaped leaves that get holes in them over time. This is called fenestration. This makes the leaves resemble Swiss cheese. The Swiss cheese plant is a tropical perennial that comes from Central and South America. It is usually grown indoors.
Monstera adansonii grows quickly and climbs over other plants, just like its cousin Monstera deliciosa, which is also known as the Swiss cheese plant. When grown outside, the Swiss cheese plant can grow up to 10 to 13 feet tall, but when grown in a container indoors, it stays easier to handle at a height of 3 to 8 feet. If they are kept in the best conditions with indirect light, Swiss cheese plants usually grow one to two feet per year as houseplants. Swiss cheese plants are usually grown from young plants in a nursery when they are kept as houseplants. They can be potted up at any time.
You should know that all parts of Monstera plants are dangerous for pets, so be careful if you grow them inside.
The Swiss cheese plant, also known as Monstera adansonii, is a popular houseplant known for its heart-shaped leaves with signature holes and fenestrations But what are its care requirements, specifically when it comes to humidity? This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know about caring for your Swiss cheese plant and making sure it gets the humidity it needs to thrive
An Overview of Swiss Cheese Plant Care
Swiss cheese plants are native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. As such, they prefer warm temperatures between 65-85°F and indirect sunlight or partial shade. Their natural habitat is humid rainforests, so providing adequate humidity is key.
In terms of soil, Swiss cheese plants like an airy, well-draining potting mix. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced houseplant fertilizer.
Monitor your plant for signs of pests like spider mites or mealybugs and treat accordingly. To promote bushy growth pinch off stem tips. As a vining plant Swiss cheese plants also appreciate a moss pole or trellis for support as they grow.
The Importance of Humidity for Swiss Cheese Plants
Humidity is arguably one of the most critical elements of Swiss cheese plant care. In their native tropics, these plants thrive in humidity levels around 80 percent. Indoors, aim for at least 50-60 percent.
Without sufficient humidity, Swiss cheese plants can struggle with dry, crispy leaves and tips. They may also produce fewer new leaves and fenestrations. Boosting moisture in the surrounding air helps keep their foliage lush.
Luckily, there are several easy ways to increase humidity for your Monstera adansonii!
5 Tips to Increase Humidity
Here are five simple tips to provide the ideal humid environment for your Swiss cheese plant:
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Use a humidifier – Run a humidifier nearby to maintain humidity between 50-60%. Avoid locating the humidifier directly next to your plant.
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Mist frequently – Use a spray bottle to mist your Monstera’s leaves at least once a day, or whenever the air feels particularly dry. Stick to plain water.
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Group plants together – The transpiration from multiple plants in one space creates a natural humid microclimate.
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Use pebble trays – Place pebbles in a tray filled with water. Set your pot on top of the pebbles above the water line. The evaporating water will increase humidity.
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Move to a bathroom – Bathrooms tend to be more humid. Situate your Monstera on the counter or hang where it can benefit from moisture in the air after showers.
Troubleshooting Humidity Issues
If your Swiss cheese plant is struggling despite efforts to increase humidity, look for these common signs:
- Dry, brown leaf edges and tips
- Curled or crispy leaves
- Few new leaves unfurling
- Smaller leaf size
- Lack of fenestrations/holes in leaves
Try moving your plant to a naturally humid spot like the kitchen or bathroom. Increase misting frequency. Add a humidifier or use pebble trays. Avoid cold drafts from AC vents, heaters, or open windows which can dry out the air.
Also check that you aren’t overwatering, as soggy soil can cause similar issues. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out before watering again.
The Takeaway
Providing adequate humidity is essential for growing a happy, healthy Swiss cheese plant.Aim for 50-60% humidity. Use a humidifier, mist frequently, group with other plants, and utilize pebble trays to recreate the moist environment this tropical plant loves. Monitor for signs of humidity stress like brown crispy leaves and make adjustments to increase moisture in the air. With a little care and the right conditions, your Monstera adansonii will flourish!
Leaves Drooping
This can be a sign of either over or underwatering. When the top two inches of soil are dry, water deeply until the soil is wet and water starts to drain out of the container’s holes.
Staking and Support
Swiss cheese plants are strong climbers. Their stems have aerial roots that grow downward and brace against the ground or any other support that is available. In the wild, it will use these roots to climb up on a nearby tree or woody vine. Supporting it with a stake is important to keep it from getting too far away from its pot. The easiest way to do this is to put a wooden, metal, or plastic stake in the middle of the pot.
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The Spruce / Photo Illustration by Amy Sheehan / Cara Cormack
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5 Things Monsteras HATE That Might Surprise You
Do Swiss cheese plants grow in high humidity?
Swiss Cheese Plants thrive in high-humidity environments, mimicking their natural rainforest habitat. The optimal humidity range for Monstera is between 55% and 70%. In less humid environments, the plant’s growth may be stunted, its leaves may brown at the edges, and it may be more susceptible to pests.
Can Swiss cheese grow in low light?
A: Swiss cheese plants can tolerate low light conditions but thrive in bright, indirect light. To ensure optimal growth, place your plant in a location with moderate to bright, filtered sunlight. In low light, growth may slow down, and the plant might become leggy.
Do Swiss cheese plants like sunlight?
Swiss Cheese Plants like bright but indirect light. Keep them away from direct sunshine during summer as it can be a little too intense for them. Whilst they can adapt to lower light levels, you’ll find growth is slower and the leaves won’t have many splits in as they need to capitalise on every bit of sunshine. Are Monstera plants toxic?
Are Swiss cheese plants easy to care for?
But the Swiss cheese plant deserves its moment in the spotlight. Those big, holey leaves are show-stopping, without a doubt, but this is also a plant that is easy to care for. It won’t start tossing its leaves to the ground in a huff if it doesn’t get the exact perfect amount of sun, humidity, or water.