“Holey plant” is a common nickname for species within the Monstera genus, especially Monstera deliciosa and Monstera adansonii. These popular houseplants are known for their distinctive leaves, which develop natural splits and holes, a characteristic called fenestration. This unique foliage and relatively straightforward care make them popular among plant enthusiasts.
Understanding Your Holey Plant
The term “holey plant” refers to Monstera deliciosa and Monstera adansonii, known for their unique leaf perforations. Monstera deliciosa has larger splits and holes in mature leaves, while Monstera adansonii features smaller, often oval-shaped holes. These fenestrations are a natural part of the plant’s development, not a sign of damage.
Fenestration is an adaptation to the plant’s natural jungle habitat. One theory suggests these holes allow light to penetrate the dense canopy, reaching lower leaves and maximizing light absorption. Another hypothesis proposes that fenestrations help the plant withstand strong winds by reducing resistance, preventing tearing. They might also improve water uptake by directing rainwater to the roots.
Holey Plant Care Essentials
Caring for a “holey plant” involves understanding its needs to encourage robust growth and prominent fenestration. Providing the right conditions for light, water, soil, humidity, temperature, and nutrients supports the plant’s overall health. Adequate structural support also plays a role in its development.
Light
Monstera plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Placing them near an east, south, or west-facing window, where they receive ample ambient light without direct sun exposure, is ideal. Direct sunlight, especially harsh afternoon rays, can scorch their leaves, leading to discoloration or burn spots. Insufficient light results in slower growth, smaller leaves, and a lack of fenestration.
Watering
Proper watering is important for Monstera health. Allow the top two to three inches of soil to dry out completely between waterings. Check soil moisture with your finger or a moisture meter, as needs vary. Overwatering can lead to root rot, causing yellowing leaves and soggy soil. Underwatering may cause wilting and crispy leaf edges. Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s bottom.
Soil Requirements
Monstera plants require a well-draining, airy potting mix that prevents waterlogging while retaining some moisture. A suitable blend often includes peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention, mixed with perlite, pumice, or orchid bark for aeration and drainage. This mimics their epiphytic nature. Some mixes also incorporate activated charcoal or worm castings to enrich the soil and improve drainage.
Humidity and Temperature
These tropical plants prefer high humidity, around 60% or higher, and warm temperatures. Temperatures between 18°C and 29°C (65°F and 85°F) are ideal. Avoiding temperatures below 15°C (60°F) and sudden cold drafts is important. To increase indoor humidity, use a humidifier, group plants, or place the pot on a pebble tray. Misting leaves offers a temporary boost but is not a long-term solution.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season, Monstera plants benefit from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer, such as one with an NPK ratio like 3-1-2 or 6-2-4, applied every two to four weeks, supports healthy growth. Apply fertilizer to moist soil, never dry, to prevent root burn. Reduce or stop fertilization during fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows. Signs of nutrient deficiency, like slow growth or yellowing leaves, may indicate a need for fertilization.
Providing Support
Monstera species are vining plants that climb in their natural habitat, using aerial roots to attach to trees. Providing a moss pole or trellis allows these aerial roots to anchor, encouraging vertical growth. This can lead to larger, more mature leaves with increased fenestration. Secure the plant to the support as it grows to maintain its upright structure.
Troubleshooting Common Holey Plant Problems
Even with consistent care, “holey plants” can encounter specific issues. Addressing these problems promptly helps maintain the plant’s health and appearance.
Lack of Fenestration
If a Monstera is not developing its characteristic holes, several factors can contribute. Immaturity is a common reason; young plants often produce solid leaves before fenestrations appear. Insufficient light is a common cause, as adequate light provides the energy needed for leaf splitting. A lack of proper support for its vining habit can also inhibit fenestration; providing a moss pole encourages maturity. Poor nutrition can also restrict fenestrated leaf development.
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves on a Monstera often signal a watering issue. Overwatering is a primary cause, leading to root rot. Underwatering can also cause yellowing, often with limp or crispy leaves. Other factors include insufficient light, nutrient deficiencies, or the natural aging of older leaves. Adjusting watering frequency based on soil moisture and ensuring proper light can resolve most cases.
Browning Leaves or Crispy Edges
Browning leaves or crispy edges often indicate low humidity, especially in dry indoor environments. Underwatering is another common cause, leading to dehydration. Direct sunlight can also cause leaf burn, resulting in brown, crispy patches. Chemical burn from excessive fertilizer application can cause browning leaf tips or edges. Increasing humidity, adjusting watering habits, and avoiding direct sun exposure are remedies.
Pests
Monstera plants can be susceptible to common houseplant pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, thrips, and scale insects. Regular inspection of leaves, particularly the undersides and crevices, aids early detection. Signs of infestation include fine webbing (spider mites), white cottony masses (mealybugs), or sticky residue (aphids, scale). Organic treatments like wiping pests with rubbing alcohol, or applying neem oil or insecticidal soap, are effective.
Propagating and Repotting Holey Plants
Expanding your collection or maintaining the health of an existing plant often involves propagation and repotting. These processes are distinct from daily care and help ensure the plant’s continued vitality.
Propagating
Monstera plants are commonly propagated using stem cuttings, either in water or soil. To take a cutting, select a healthy stem section that includes at least one node, a small bump where a leaf or aerial root emerges. Cut about one to two inches below the node using clean, sharp shears. Remove any lower leaves that would be submerged. Place the cutting in water, with the node submerged, and change the water weekly. Alternatively, plant the cutting directly into a moist, well-draining potting mix, with the node covered. Roots typically develop within a few weeks to a couple of months.
Repotting
Repotting is necessary when a Monstera becomes root-bound, shows slowed growth, or needs fresh soil, typically every one to three years. Choose a new pot only one to two inches larger in diameter than the current one; a pot that is too large can lead to root rot. Ensure drainage holes. Prepare a fresh, well-draining potting mix. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, tease apart any circling roots, and place it in the new container, filling with fresh soil around the root ball. Water thoroughly after repotting to help the soil settle.