Monstera adansonii

Monstera adansonii (narrow form/ round form) is characterized by oval shape leaves with peculiar holes in the leaves. Its dramatic leaves give it a special character, 

Plant Requirement: 

Soil: Monstera requires firm but fragile soils to grow. It is a shallow-rooted plant and also grows ariel roots which help it in feeding the plant. Soil should be well-drained, good water holding capacity, and rich in organic matter. Soil-less media can be used e.g. cocopeat or it can be mixed with soil in a 50:50 ratio. 

Water: Monstera is a water-loving plant. But it can also go without water for a few days if air humidity is moderate to moderately high. It loves moisture, and water is needed only to moist the growing media or soil. 

Climate: Monstera can grow under semi-shade to full shade conditions. It requires humid conditions to grow. It is a tropical evergreen plant. The optimum temperature should be 18 to 32 degrees Celcius. Dry air and winds may cause splitting of the leaves and drying of the leaf-margin. 

Garden Use: Monstera can be grown as a pot-plant on a moss-stick pole or wooden pole. In the outdoors it can be trained on big trees. It is mostly used to add little drama in the garden. The wilted trees can be pruned back and kept with primary and secondary branches and monstera can be trained on it. 

Care and Maintenance: 

Nutrition: Monstera is a heavy feeder. It demands a good amount of nutrients. It can be fertilized 2 to 3 times a year with well-decomposed farmyard manure or vermicompost.  

Protection: Monstera is a clean plant. It doesn't attract pests and diseases. The large leaves can be cleaned with a soft cotton cloth or cotton swab by holding leaf on the palm. Do not rub a cloth on it, as it may damage the leaf surface and glow.  

Horticulture Operations: Monstera does not require any special inter-horticultural operations. Repotting can be done 1 or 2 years interval depends on its growth and development. Train it properly on the pole and care should be taken white tying growing end to the supporting pole.