The monstera plant, native to Central and South American rainforests, has become a popular houseplant in cooler climates.
Despite its tropical origins, tits striking foliage thrives in colder countries when it receives proper care.
Plant enthusiasts have shared a wealth of tips on how to cultivate the giant fenestrated leaves to their full potential.
In a TikTok video, monstera fan Bridget emphasised the importance of frequent leaf trimming for optimal growth
Pruning is one of the best ways to enhance plant growth
TIKTOK
“Besides watering and besides giving it plenty of sunlight, the best way to get your plants to grow is by cutting them, it’s by pruning them."
She explained that plants will look content when they’re being fertilised and receive enough life, but pruning is still necessary for accelerated growth in such cases.
“If you want your plant to grow, and continue to mature, you have to redistribute the energy," she said.
“So the younger leaves, the ones that you’d had for three to six months or even a year, chop them up.
“The more that you cut your plant, the more it is going to give you big, exciting leaves, because you have to redistribute the energy, you have to shock the plant.
“So no, you do not have to keep the leaves on your plant, prune prune prune and you will be gifted with bigger and more beautiful leaves.”
The website monstera Plant Resources confirms that pruning is an essential aspect of the plant's care.
Not only does it promote healthy growth, but it can prevent the development of diseases and pest infestations and even create new plants for propagation.
“Just plant your cuts carefully,” the body advised. “Use sharp pruning shears and clean up after each session to keep your monstera looking its best.”
Monstera’s lighting and watering needs
Watering monstera plants requires a careful approach. They should be watered every one to two weeks, allowing the soil to dry between watering.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
The monstera plant needs a lot of light to produce perforations
GETTYMaintaining humidity can be challenging in dry environments, however, which is why plant enthusiast Bob Vila suggests misting monstera plants weekly during colder months when indoor heating can dry the air.
He said: "Monstera plants prefer temperatures of 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and 50 to 60 per cent humidity.
"A furnace can dry out the air during the cold season, so consider misting monstera with water every week or so.
"For more consistent humidity, run a humidifier in the room."