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A Veranda gardening report by Arricca Elin SanSone outlines care for Monstera deliciosa, commonly called the Swiss cheese plant. It recommends bright, indirect light, watering once the top few inches of soil dry, and keeping the plant away from cats and dogs because it is toxic to pets.
Veranda gardening writer Arricca Elin SanSone has published a care guide for the Swiss cheese plant, most commonly Monstera deliciosa, recommending bright, indirect light and watering only after the top few inches of soil feel dry. The report also warns that monstera plants are toxic to cats and dogs, a consideration for households choosing where to keep one.
SanSone describes Monstera deliciosa as a vining tropical plant whose mature leaves develop holes and slits, called fenestrations. The guide says it grows more readily with bright, indirect light; in low light, growth slows and the characteristic openings may not develop. Outdoors in summer, it should be kept in dappled shade, then brought inside before nighttime temperatures fall into the 40s Fahrenheit.
For watering, the report advises checking the soil rather than following a fixed schedule: water when the top few inches are dry. The plant does not like persistently soggy soil. SanSone also recommends a balanced, general-purpose houseplant fertilizer, used according to its label from spring through fall, when growth is most vigorous. It can tolerate typical indoor humidity if it is watered appropriately.
The plant can climb if given a moss pole while young, or be allowed to spread. Repotting may be needed when it dries out faster than usual or the soil pulls away from the pot; the guide recommends moving it to a container about two inches wider. Large leaves can collect dust, so the report advises wiping them regularly with a soft, damp cloth.
Care Choices That Shape Growth
The guide links everyday care decisions to the plant’s appearance and health. Light levels affect growth and fenestrations, while overwatering can lead to root rot, which the report says is often fatal. Checking soil before watering gives owners a practical way to reduce the risk of keeping the roots too wet.
Pet safety is another direct concern. The report cites the ASPCA in identifying monstera as toxic to cats and dogs. Its stated symptoms include mouth irritation, burning, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Owners who suspect a pet has chewed the plant are advised to contact a veterinarian promptly.
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Monstera Names and Growth
Swiss cheese plant is a common name used for more than one plant, but the guide identifies Monstera deliciosa as the most popular and widely available. It is sometimes called cut-leaf or split-leaf philodendron, though the report clarifies that it is not part of the philodendron genus. Other plants also sold under the common name include Monstera adansonii and the less commonly available Monstera epipremnoides.
SanSone describes the species as native to the tropical forests of Central America and naturally climbing. The report says its leaves can reach 18 inches long, while a houseplant may grow around 8 to 10 feet tall. It can remain in the same pot for several years despite being a vigorous grower, provided its conditions remain suitable.
“Water when the top few inches of soil feel dry.”
— Arricca Elin SanSone, Veranda garden writer
When Symptoms Need More Checking
The report offers general care guidance, not a diagnosis for every plant. Slow growth or missing leaf holes may indicate low light, while wet soil and leaves that appear to be “sweating” may point to overwatering, according to the guide. It does not establish that these signs have only one cause, and conditions such as the plant’s age and individual growing environment may affect its appearance.
The supplied material does not give a publication date, identify a specific plant seller, or provide a veterinary treatment protocol. For a suspected pet exposure, the guide says to contact a veterinarian; it does not specify the amount of plant material that would cause symptoms.
Adjust Care to Plant Signals
The practical next step for owners is to monitor soil dryness, light and growth rather than rely on a fixed watering calendar. If soil remains wet, the guide recommends holding off on watering until it dries; if growth is sluggish or the leaves lack their typical holes, it suggests providing more light, including a grow light when natural light is insufficient.
Owners can also watch for signs that the plant has outgrown its pot, then move it to a container about two inches wider. Households with cats or dogs should place the plant where pets cannot chew it. The report does not announce a follow-up study or new care guidance; it presents these steps as ongoing maintenance advice.
Key Questions
How often should I water a Swiss cheese plant?
According to SanSone’s guide, water when the top few inches of soil feel dry. Check the soil before watering, since the plant should not remain soggy.
What light does Monstera deliciosa need?
The report recommends bright, indirect light. Low light can slow growth and limit the development of the leaf holes; a grow light may help when natural light is insufficient.
Is a Swiss cheese plant dangerous to pets?
Yes. The guide cites the ASPCA and says monstera is toxic to cats and dogs. If a pet may have chewed it, contact a veterinarian.
When should I repot a Swiss cheese plant?
The guide says to consider repotting if the plant dries out faster than before or soil pulls away from the pot. Choose a new pot about two inches wider in diameter.
Source: veranda.com
