An “IKEA Monstera” typically refers to Monstera deliciosa, known for its iconic split leaves, though Monstera adansonii with its distinctive holes is also occasionally available. These tropical plants have surged in popularity due to their striking appearance, relatively straightforward care, and affordability. Acquiring a Monstera from IKEA is an excellent starting point for beginners or seasoned enthusiasts.
Buying Your IKEA Monstera
When selecting a Monstera from IKEA, inspect the plant carefully before purchase. Look for vibrant green foliage, signs of new growth, and sturdy stems. Healthy Monstera leaves should be a deep green, though newly unfurled leaves might appear lighter, and they should feel firm to the touch. Avoid plants with yellowing leaves, brown spots, wilting, or any visible signs of pests, such as tiny webs or specks on the undersides of leaves.
IKEA Monsteras often come in basic nursery pots and may be root-bound. While not an immediate issue, future repotting will be necessary for continued healthy growth. Check roots, if possible, for firmness and a white appearance, rather than a brown or rotten look.
Caring for Your IKEA Monstera
Upon bringing your Monstera home, allow it to adjust to its new environment. This acclimation period helps the plant recover from transport stress. Observe its behavior and avoid immediate repotting or drastic changes to light or watering.
Monstera plants thrive in bright, indirect light, mimicking their native jungle understory. Place your plant near a window that receives filtered sunlight, such as an east or west-facing window. Direct sunlight can scorch leaves, while insufficient light results in leggy growth and smaller, less fenestrated leaves.
Water when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry. Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, but avoid letting the plant sit in standing water to prevent root rot. A well-draining, airy potting mix, often a blend of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark, is ideal for proper drainage and aeration.
These tropical plants prefer moderate to high humidity, ideally above 60%. Increase humidity by regularly misting the leaves, placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, or using a room humidifier. Maintain a consistent room temperature between 18°C and 24°C (65°F and 75°F). Fertilize your Monstera every two to four weeks during the spring and summer growing season, using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce or stop fertilizing during winter.
Repot when the plant becomes root-bound, typically every one to two years, or if purchased root-bound. Choose a new pot only 5-7 cm larger in diameter to prevent excess moisture retention and root rot. When repotting, gently loosen the roots and place the plant in fresh, well-draining soil. Regularly wipe leaves with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust, allowing the plant to absorb light more efficiently and promoting a lush appearance.
Addressing Common Challenges
Monstera plants may encounter issues, especially after transitioning to a new home. Inspect your plant regularly for pests like spider mites, mealybugs, or thrips. If detected, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Yellowing leaves often indicate watering issues. Overwatering, which can lead to root rot, is a frequent cause, especially if the soil remains soggy. However, underwatering can also cause yellowing, particularly on older leaves, if the soil becomes excessively dry. Adjust your watering routine to allow the topsoil to dry out between waterings.
Brown tips or edges on leaves indicate low humidity, inconsistent watering, or sometimes fluoride sensitivity in tap water. Increase ambient humidity and ensure consistent soil moisture. If the plant is not developing its characteristic leaf splits (fenestrations), it may be due to insufficient light, immaturity, or lack of nutrients. Provide brighter, indirect light and regular fertilization to encourage fenestration development.
Leggy growth, where stems appear stretched with sparse foliage, indicates inadequate light. Reposition the Monstera to a brighter spot for more compact growth. Some initial stress, like slight wilting or yellowing of lower leaves, is normal after transport. Allow the plant time to settle without overreacting with excessive care changes.