Indoor plants bring more than just greenery into our homes — they add personality, purify the air, and create a calming atmosphere. Among the most loved houseplants across the UK and USA is the Swiss cheese plant — known scientifically as Monstera deliciosa. Its distinctive perforated leaves and tropical appearance make it a statement piece in any home or office.
However, to keep this iconic Swiss monstera thriving, it’s essential to understand its care needs. Whether you’re growing the larger Monstera deliciosa or the smaller Monstera adansonii, proper care ensures lush growth and long-lasting beauty.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Swiss cheese plant care, from watering and light requirements to propagation and common issues.
What Is the Swiss Cheese Plant?
The Swiss cheese plant, often called the cheese plant or Swiss cheese philodendron, is a tropical climbing vine native to Central and South America. Its scientific name, Monstera deliciosa, comes from the Latin word monstrum, meaning “monstrous,” referencing its large, fenestrated leaves.
Another popular species, Monstera adansonii, is commonly referred to as the mini Swiss cheese plant due to its smaller leaves and similar hole patterns. Both varieties are part of the Araceae family, which also includes philodendrons and pothos plants.
Despite the nickname “Swiss cheese philodendron,” the Swiss cheese plant is not a true philodendron, though it shares similar growth habits and care requirements.
Why the Swiss Cheese Plant Is So Popular
The Monstera plant has become an icon in modern interior design. Its lush, dramatic leaves complement minimalist décor, while its easygoing nature appeals to new plant owners.
Key Reasons for Its Popularity:
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Unique Leaf Pattern: The fenestrations (holes) in the leaves resemble Swiss cheese, creating a tropical aesthetic.
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Low Maintenance: The Monstera deliciosa and Monstera adansonii thrive with minimal effort once their basic needs are met.
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Air Purification: Like many indoor plants, the Swiss cheese plant helps filter toxins, improving indoor air quality.
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Versatile Growth: It can be trained to climb up moss poles or trail gracefully from hanging baskets.
Ideal Conditions for Swiss Cheese Plant Care
To ensure your Swiss plant stays healthy, it’s important to replicate its natural tropical environment as closely as possible.
1. Light Requirements
Swiss cheese plants prefer bright, indirect light. In their native rainforests, Monsteras grow beneath large trees, receiving filtered sunlight.
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Best Location: Near a north- or east-facing window (in the UK or USA).
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Avoid: Direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
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Low Light: The plant can tolerate lower light but may develop fewer leaf perforations.
2. Temperature and Humidity
The Swiss cheese plant loves warmth and humidity.
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Ideal Temperature: Between 18°C–27°C (65°F–80°F).
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Avoid: Cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).
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Humidity: Aim for at least 60% humidity. Mist the leaves or use a humidifier during dry winter months.
3. Watering Schedule
One of the most common mistakes in Monstera care is overwatering.
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Water When: The top 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
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Watering Tip: Use lukewarm water and ensure proper drainage.
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Avoid: Waterlogged soil — Monsteras dislike sitting in water, which can lead to root rot.
4. Soil Type
The best soil for a Monstera deliciosa Swiss cheese plant is well-draining but moisture-retentive.
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Recommended Mix: A blend of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark works best.
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pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral (around 5.5–7.0).
5. Fertilization
Feed your Swiss cheese plant Monstera monthly during the growing season (spring and summer).
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Type: A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (20-20-20 or similar).
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Frequency: Once every 4–6 weeks.
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Tip: Reduce feeding in autumn and winter when growth slows.
Training and Supporting Your Monstera
Monsteras are natural climbers. In the wild, they use aerial roots to attach to trees for support.
Providing Support Indoors
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Moss Pole: Encourages vertical growth and larger leaves.
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Trellis or Stake: Helps guide your plant’s shape.
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Trailing Growth: For smaller species like Monstera adansonii, allow it to cascade from a shelf or hanging planter.
Regularly wipe dust off the leaves to allow for better photosynthesis and a glossy appearance.
How to Propagate a Swiss Cheese Plant
Propagation is an exciting way to grow new plants from your existing one. Both Monstera deliciosa and Adansonii Monstera propagate easily through stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
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Choose a Healthy Stem: Select a cutting with at least one node and aerial root.
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Cut Below the Node: Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors.
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Rooting Medium: Place the cutting in water or directly into moist soil.
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Location: Keep it in bright, indirect light.
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Transplant: Once roots reach 2–3 inches, transfer the cutting into a pot with well-draining soil.
Propagation not only gives you new plants but also helps maintain your existing plant’s size and shape.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Even with the best care, Swiss cheese plants can experience some issues. Recognizing them early helps keep your plant thriving.
1. Yellow Leaves
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Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage.
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Solution: Allow soil to dry before watering again and ensure proper drainage holes.
2. Brown Leaf Tips
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Cause: Low humidity or too much direct sunlight.
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Solution: Increase humidity and move the plant to indirect light.
3. Drooping Leaves
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Cause: Underwatering, overwatering, or shock after repotting.
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Solution: Adjust watering habits and check root health.
4. No Holes in Leaves
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Cause: Low light or immature plant.
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Solution: Provide brighter indirect light and allow time for the plant to mature.
Monstera Adansonii Care
The Monstera adansonii, often called the Swiss cheese vine, has smaller, more delicate leaves compared to the Monstera deliciosa. Its care requirements are quite similar but with a few unique points:
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Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
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Watering: Let the top inch of soil dry before watering.
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Humidity: Loves high humidity — perfect for bathrooms or kitchens.
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Fertilizer: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during growth seasons.
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Support: Can trail or climb; use a moss pole for a vertical display.
This Adansonii Monstera species grows faster and is ideal for hanging baskets or small spaces.
Repotting the Swiss Cheese Plant
Repot your Swiss cheese philodendron plant every 2–3 years to refresh the soil and give roots more space.
Steps for Repotting:
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Choose a Pot: One size larger with drainage holes.
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Prepare Soil: Use fresh potting mix suited for Monsteras.
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Remove Gently: Take the plant out of its old pot without damaging roots.
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Replant and Water: Place it in the new pot, backfill with soil, and water lightly.
Repotting in spring encourages healthy new growth and prevents the plant from becoming root-bound.
Seasonal Care Tips
Spring and Summer
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Active growth season — water and feed regularly.
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Monitor for pests like spider mites or mealybugs.
Autumn and Winter
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Growth slows — reduce watering and stop fertilizing.
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Maintain humidity levels indoors using a humidifier or pebble tray.
Toxicity and Safety
While the Swiss cheese plant is admired for its looks, it’s toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mouth irritation or swelling.
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Keep Away From: Cats, dogs, and small children.
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If Ingested: Rinse mouth and contact a medical professional or vet.
Decorating With Swiss Cheese Plants
The Swiss cheese plant Monstera is more than just a plant — it’s a design statement.
Styling Ideas:
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Use a large Monstera deliciosa as a focal point in a living room.
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Display a trailing Monstera adansonii on open shelving.
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Combine with other tropical plants like Philodendrons or Calatheas for a lush indoor jungle.
In both UK and USA homes, this plant complements natural wood, neutral tones, and modern interiors beautifully.
Environmental Benefits of the Swiss Cheese Plant
Beyond aesthetics, the Swiss cheese plant contributes to a healthier indoor environment. It helps filter airborne toxins and adds humidity to the air — beneficial during dry winters.
Benefits Include:
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Air purification (removes carbon dioxide and volatile compounds).
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Improved mood and productivity.
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Reduced stress and better indoor air balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Swiss Cheese Plant Easy to Grow?
Yes! It’s one of the easiest tropical houseplants for beginners, provided it gets proper light and water.
2. How Often Should I Water My Monstera?
Typically once a week in summer and less in winter — always check the soil moisture first.
3. Can Monsteras Grow in Water?
Yes, temporarily. Many people root cuttings in water, but long-term growth is best in soil.
4. Why Is My Monstera Not Growing Holes?
It might be too young or not getting enough light. Mature leaves and brighter conditions encourage fenestrations.
5. Can I Grow a Swiss Cheese Plant Outdoors?
In tropical or subtropical climates, yes. In the UK or northern USA, keep it indoors year-round or outdoors only in warm summers.
Final Thoughts on Swiss Cheese Plant Care
The Swiss cheese plant — whether you’re caring for the Monstera deliciosa or the Monstera adansonii — offers the perfect mix of tropical charm and low-maintenance beauty. With the right light, humidity, and watering routine, your Swiss plant can flourish for decades.
Its ability to climb, adapt, and grow makes it one of the most rewarding indoor plants for both beginners and enthusiasts alike. Whether you call it a cheese plant, a Swiss monstera, or a Swiss cheese philodendron plant, it’s a timeless addition to any home in the UK or USA.
Bring the jungle indoors — your Swiss cheese plant Monstera will thank you with vibrant, glossy leaves and endless visual appeal.
