Monstera care in offices
Monstera deliciosa
A monstera needs bright indoor light without strong direct sun. Water it thoroughly, then let the top quarter to one-third of the soil dry. Keep it between 60 and 85°F.
Monstera facts
- Botanical name
- Monstera deliciosa
- Family
- Araceae (arum family)[1]
- Native range
- Southern Mexico (Veracruz, Oaxaca, and Chiapas) to Guatemala[1]
- Light
- Bright indoor light with no strong direct sun[2]
- Water
- Water thoroughly. Then let the top quarter to one-third of the soil dry before the next watering.[3]
- Temperature
- 60 to 85°F, with high humidity[3]
- Cats and dogs
- Toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalates.[4]
- Common problems
- Aphids, mealybugs, thrips, scale, and spider mites[2]
Light and location
A monstera needs bright indoor light. Keep it out of strong direct sun.[2]
It prefers warm temperatures between 60 and 85°F and high humidity.[3]
Water
Water the plant thoroughly. Then let the top quarter to one-third of the soil dry before you water again.[3]
Pests and pet safety
Look for aphids, mealybugs, thrips, scale, and spider mites.[2]
The ASPCA lists the monstera (Swiss cheese plant) as toxic to cats and dogs. Signs include mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.[4]
How MotherBotanist cares for a monstera
On each weekly visit, the technician does these tasks for each plant:
- Check the soil, and water only if the plant needs it
- Look for pests, disease, and signs of stress
- Remove dust from the leaves
- Cut off dead or damaged leaves
- Turn the plant so that all sides get light
The technician records the care and adds a photo to the plant profile in your client portal.
Monstera questions
Short answers about this plant in an office.
How much light does a monstera need in an office?
It needs bright indoor light with no strong direct sun, according to the Missouri Botanical Garden.
How often should you water a monstera?
Water it thoroughly. Then let the top quarter to one-third of the soil dry before you water again, according to NC State Extension.
Is a monstera toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. The ASPCA lists the monstera (Swiss cheese plant) as toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalates. Signs include mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Sources
- Monstera deliciosa Liebm.. Plants of the World Online, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- Monstera deliciosa (Plant Finder). Missouri Botanical Garden.
- Monstera deliciosa. North Carolina State University Extension, Gardener Plant Toolbox.
- Swiss Cheese Plant. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.
Need weekly care for the plants in your office? Plans start at $2,500 per month.