Swiss Cheese Plants: How Long Do They Typically Survive?

The Swiss cheese plant, also known as the Monstera deliciosa, is a low-maintenance houseplant native to the jungle floors of South America. Its distinctive features include lush, glossy, heart-shaped leaves that develop holes as the plant matures, resembling Swiss cheese. This process, called fenestration, allows light to reach the lower leaves. In this paragraph, we will explore the lifespan of the Swiss cheese plant and the factors that contribute to its longevity.

Light requirements: bright, indirect light is best

Bright, indirect light is best for Swiss cheese plants. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so a spot that's a few feet from a window, in bright light, is ideal. If you can't avoid direct sunlight, limit exposure to two or three hours of morning sun. You can also put your Swiss cheese plant in a west-facing window if you use a sheer curtain to make the harsh afternoon light indirect.

Swiss cheese plants are native to the jungle floors of South America, where they grow up trees, clinging on with their roots. In the wild, the holes in their leaves allow light to filter down to their lower shoots. This process is known as 'fenestration' and it's thought that plants do this to let as much light as possible reach their lower leaves.

If your Swiss cheese plant isn't getting enough light, its leaves won't develop the distinctive cut-outs. If it's too dark, the plant won't grow well and may become spindly as it stretches for light.

Watering: water when the topsoil is almost dry

Watering your Swiss cheese plant is a delicate balance. These plants are susceptible to root rot, so it's important to let the topsoil dry out almost completely before watering again. You should water your Swiss cheese plant no more than once a week, and always ensure that the top inch or two of soil is dry before watering. The frequency of watering may vary depending on the environmental conditions, so it's important to monitor the soil's moisture level regularly.

During the growing season, typically in spring and summer, you may need to water more frequently. However, be careful during the dormant period in fall and winter, and water only moderately. Overwatering can cause root rot, so always ensure that your plant has proper soil drainage.

When watering your Swiss cheese plant, it's best to water it from the top. This technique mimics natural rain and helps wash away accumulated salts in the soil. Bottom watering can be ideal for those who want to saturate the soil more effectively, but be mindful not to let excess water pool in the saucer beneath the pot, as it can lead to root problems.

Swiss cheese plants prefer a well-draining potting mix, rich in organic matter. A mix designed for tropical plants or combining peat, perlite, and pine bark works well. The pot should have enough drainage holes to avoid soggy soil.

To check if your Swiss cheese plant needs water, you can stick your finger into the soil to see if it's dry. You can also look for signs of limp or curling leaves, which can indicate that the plant is thirsty. Remember, if your plant's leaves are yellow, this is usually a sign of over or under-watering, so adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

Temperature: aim for 15-30°C

Swiss cheese plants, or Monstera, are tropical plants native to the jungle floors of South America. They are characterised by their large, heart-shaped leaves that develop holes as the plant matures, resembling Swiss cheese. These plants are easy to care for and can live for years in the right conditions.

One of the most important factors in caring for a Swiss cheese plant is maintaining the correct temperature. These plants thrive in warm temperatures and will only grow in temperatures over 18°C (64°F). The ideal temperature range for a Swiss cheese plant is between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F).

Keeping your Swiss cheese plant in this temperature range will help it to thrive and ensure its overall well-being and vitality. It is important to avoid exposing the plant to sudden temperature drops or drafts, as these can cause stress. Providing a consistently warm environment will replicate its native habitat and keep your plant healthy.

In addition to maintaining the correct temperature, there are several other care tips to keep in mind for your Swiss cheese plant. These include providing bright, indirect light, watering regularly but allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and providing a well-draining potting mix. With the right care, your Swiss cheese plant will reward you with its beautiful foliage for years to come.

Misting: mist leaves occasionally

Misting the leaves of your Swiss cheese plant is a good idea, especially if you're in a dry environment. It can help to increase the humidity around the plant, which it will appreciate. Swiss cheese plants enjoy higher humidity levels, which mimic their native tropical environment. Aim for humidity levels of 60% to 80% to create an ideal environment for robust growth.

If the air in your home is dry, consider putting a water tray or a humidifier near the plant to enhance humidity. Misting the leaves occasionally is also an option, but it's not essential. Focus on maintaining consistent humidity levels through other methods, like using a humidifier, if possible.

The Swiss cheese plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, warm temperatures, and humid conditions. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it's best to place it a few feet away from a window, in a spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid cold drafts and temperature drops below 50°F (10°C).

The Swiss cheese plant is a low-maintenance houseplant that can live for years in the right conditions. It is known for its large, heart-shaped leaves that develop holes as the plant matures, resembling Swiss cheese. It is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, where it uses aerial roots to climb up trees to access more sunlight.

In addition to misting, providing a stake, trellis, or moss pole in the middle of the container will give the plant a structure to climb upon and help it grow upwards.

Repotting: repot every few years

Swiss cheese plants are low-maintenance plants that can be repotted with relatively little hassle. Repotting should be done every few years, or every two years according to some sources, to ensure adequate soil nutrition and space for the rapidly growing plant. The best time to repot is in the spring, before new leaves occur, and when the roots are beginning to bulge out of the pot.

When repotting, choose a sturdy pot with plenty of drainage holes that is slightly larger than the previous one. Fill the bottom third of the pot with a standard good-quality potting soil, with the addition of some peat moss. Set the stake into the centre lightly, and place the base of the plant into the container so that the original soil line is just below the new line. Fill in around the base roots and any aerial roots that reach into the soil, and firm up the potting mix around the stake. You can use plant ties to attach the stem to the stake for extra support.

After repotting, water the plant deeply. Wait a week or two, then resume a monthly feeding with liquid fertiliser.

Frequently asked questions