Plants / Monstera

Monstera

Monstera deliciosa

Also known as: Swiss Cheese Plant, Split-leaf Philodendron

⚠ïļ Toxic to petsAraceaeEasy to propagate

A complete guide to growing and propagating Monstera: its care needs, how to take cuttings and root them, how long propagation takes, and how to fix the most common problems.

Monstera care at a glance

☀ïļ Light
Bright, indirect light; avoid harsh direct sun.
💧 Water
Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry; about weekly.
ðŸŠī Soil
Chunky, airy aroid mix (bark, perlite, coco coir).
ðŸ’Ļ Humidity
Prefers 60%+; tolerates average humidity.
ðŸū Toxicity
Toxic to cats and dogs (calcium oxalates).

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How to propagate Monstera

Stem cutting with node + aerial root (water or soil)

Difficulty: EasyTimeline: Roots in 3-6 weeks in water; new leaf in 1-2 months.
  1. Find a node with an aerial root (the brown nub on the stem).
  2. Cut about 1 inch below the node with clean shears, including at least one leaf.
  3. Place the node and aerial root in water or moist sphagnum moss.
  4. Keep in bright, indirect light; refresh water weekly.
  5. Pot up once roots are 2-4 inches long.

Common Monstera problems & fixes

No splits/fenestrations in leaves

Plant is young or under-lit. Give more bright indirect light and time; juvenile leaves are solid.

Yellow leaves

Overwatering. Let soil dry more and ensure pot drains freely.

Brown crispy edges

Low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity and water more consistently.

Track your monstera cuttings & propagation in SnipLog

Log when you took each cutting, set rooting reminders, and watch your propagation timeline — free on iPhone.

Get SnipLog →

Toxicity notes are a general guide based on ASPCA-style classifications — if a pet ingests any houseplant, contact your vet. Care needs vary with your home's conditions.