Monstera Humidity: How to Keep Your Plant Happy and Healthy

Oleh Betty Bradtke June 08, 2023 Post a Comment

If you're a plant enthusiast, chances are that you've heard of the popular and trendy Monstera plant. This beautiful and exotic plant is known for its large, glossy leaves and unique foliage pattern. However, if you want your Monstera to thrive and look its best, it's essential to understand its humidity requirements. In this post, we'll explore everything you need to know about Monstera humidity, including how to measure it, how to increase or decrease it, and why it's so crucial for your plant's health.

The Monstera plant is native to tropical regions of Central and South America, where it grows in warm and humid conditions. Therefore, it's no surprise that this plant thrives in environments with high levels of humidity. Humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air, and it's measured in percentage form. For example, a room with 50% humidity means that the air contains half of the maximum amount of water vapor it can hold at that temperature.

When it comes to Monstera humidity, experts recommend keeping the air around your plant between 40% and 60%. Anything below 40% can cause your Monstera to dry out, while anything above 60% can create an environment that's too moist and prone to fungal growth. Therefore, it's crucial to maintain the right humidity levels to keep your Monstera healthy and happy.

How to Measure Humidity for Your Monstera

Measuring the humidity levels in your home is relatively simple. You can use a hygrometer, which is a small device that measures humidity levels. These devices are available online or at most garden centers. Alternatively, you can also use a smartphone app that measures humidity levels using your phone's sensors. Once you have a way to measure humidity, you can move on to adjusting it for your Monstera.

How to Increase Humidity for Your Monstera

If you live in a dry climate, it can be challenging to maintain the right humidity levels for your Monstera. However, there are several ways to increase humidity around your plant:

Use a humidifier: A humidifier is a device that adds moisture to the air and is an excellent way to increase humidity levels around your Monstera. Place the humidifier near your plant and set it to a humidity level between 40% and 60%.
Group your plants: Placing your Monstera with other plants can help create a microclimate of higher humidity. As plants release moisture through their leaves, they can create a more humid environment around them.
Use a pebble tray: A pebble tray is a shallow tray filled with water and pebbles. Place your Monstera pot on top of the pebbles, making sure that the bottom of the pot isn't touching the water. The water will evaporate, increasing the humidity around your Monstera.
Mist your plant: Misting your Monstera with water can help increase humidity levels temporarily. However, it's not the most effective method as the water droplets tend to evaporate quickly.

How to Decrease Humidity for Your Monstera

On the other hand, if you live in a humid climate, you may need to decrease humidity levels around your Monstera. Here are some ways to do it:

Use a dehumidifier: A dehumidifier is a device that removes moisture from the air. If your home's humidity levels are consistently high, using a dehumidifier can help keep the air around your Monstera at the right levels.
Improve ventilation: Proper ventilation can help reduce humidity levels in your home. Open windows and doors, use a fan, or install an air conditioning unit to improve airflow and reduce moisture.
Water less frequently: Overwatering can lead to high humidity levels around your Monstera. Make sure to let the soil dry out before watering again and avoid using pots without drainage holes.

Why Is Humidity So Crucial for Your Monstera's Health?

Humidity plays a critical role in your Monstera's health because it affects how the plant absorbs water and nutrients. If the humidity levels are too low, your Monstera may struggle to absorb enough water through its roots, leading to leaf curling, browning, or wilting. On the other hand, if the humidity levels are too high, your Monstera may absorb too much water, leading to root rot and fungal growth.

In addition, low humidity levels can make your Monstera more susceptible to pest infestations, such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests thrive in dry conditions and can quickly spread from one plant to another.

Maintaining the right humidity levels is crucial for your Monstera's health and overall well-being. Remember to measure humidity regularly, adjust it as necessary, and monitor your plant's response to changes in humidity. With proper care and attention, your Monstera will continue to thrive and bring beauty to your home for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I mist my Monstera every day?

It's not recommended to mist your Monstera every day as it can cause water droplets to accumulate on the leaves, leading to fungal growth. Instead, mist your plant once or twice a week or use a humidifier to increase humidity levels.

Q2. Can I keep my Monstera in a bathroom?

Bathrooms can be a good place to keep your Monstera as they tend to be more humid than other rooms in the house. However, make sure that your plant is not exposed to direct sunlight or temperature fluctuations.

Q3. Do I need to fertilize my Monstera if the humidity levels are high?

Yes, even if the humidity levels are high, you still need to fertilize your Monstera to provide it with essential nutrients. Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season and reduce fertilization during the winter months.

Q4. Can low humidity levels cause my Monstera's leaves to brown?

Yes, low humidity levels can cause your Monstera's leaves to brown, especially around the edges. Make sure to maintain humidity levels between 40% and 60% to prevent this from happening.

Q5. Can I use a plastic bag to increase humidity around my Monstera?

While using a plastic bag can help increase humidity levels temporarily, it's not recommended as it can also create an environment that's too moist and prone to fungal growth.

Q6. How often should I water my Monstera?

Water your Monstera only when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause your plant to wilt and dry out.

Q7. Can I use tap water to mist my Monstera?

It's best to avoid using tap water to mist your Monstera as it may contain chlorine and other chemicals that can harm your plant's leaves. Instead, use filtered or distilled water.

Q8. What should I do if my Monstera gets infested with pests?

If your Monstera gets infested with pests, isolate it from other plants and treat it with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. You may also need to prune affected leaves or repot your plant if the infestation is severe.

Q9. Can I keep my Monstera outside during the summer?

Monstera plants thrive in warm and humid conditions, making them ideal for outdoor environments during the summer. However, make sure to protect your plant from direct sunlight and temperature extremes.

Q10. What should I do if my Monstera's leaves are turning yellow?

Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering or nutrient deficiencies. Check the soil moisture levels and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. If the problem persists, fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer.