Monstera Blanchetii Plant Care – Ultimate Guide

Monstera Blanchetii

Monstera Blanchetii, also known as the monstera adansonii ssp blanchetii, is an exotic evergreen plant that adds a unique touch to any home.

With its iconic split-leaf appearance and fast-growing vines, this tropical beauty can become the highlight of your indoor garden.

Not only is it easy to care for and maintain but it’s also very hardy and can withstand some neglect – making it one of the most popular house plants around.

Whether you want a statement piece in your living room or just need something to liven up an office corner, Monstera Blanchetii is sure to be the perfect choice.

Scientific nameMonstera Blanchetii
Other namesMonstera Adansonii ssp Blanchetii
NativeMata Atlântica
FamilyAraceae
Plant genusMonstera
Growth zoneUSDA 9b-10
Plant typeEvergreen
Growth size4-6 feet tall
Growth rateModerate to fast
LeavesFenestrated
FloweringDuring the growing season
ToxicityToxic to humans and pets
Common pestsSpider mites, Thrips, Brown scales, Mealy bugs
DiseasesSouthern blight, Bacterial leaf spot, Dasheen, Mosaic Virus, Powdery mildew

What is Monstera Blanchetii

The Monstera Blanchetii, scientifically known as Monstera Adansonii ssp Blanchetii, is a huge leaf variety of climbing Adansonii.

As a native to the verdant rainforests of Central and South America, this unique member of the Araceae family thrives in growth zones 9b-10.

Its impressive size, with leaves often growing up to 2 meters, adds a touch of tropical essence to any space.

Its distinctive fenestrated leaves, filled with captivating natural holes and splits, are a signature characteristic that has gained attention from plant enthusiasts worldwide.

However, it is important to keep in mind that Monstera Blanchetii contains a high level of toxicity, making it potentially harmful to both pets and humans if consumed.

Furthermore, this particular species is subject to several diseases that may affect its growth and overall health.

Despite these challenges, having a Monstera Blanchetii as a part of your indoor or outdoor plant haven can bring an exotic allure to your surroundings while also serving as a fascinating conversation piece for visitors.

How Do You Identify a Monstera Blanchetii?

Identifying a Monstera Blanchetii is fairly straightforward and can be done visually.

The unique leaves of the Swiss Cheese Plant have distinct characteristics that make them easy to recognize.

The most distinctive feature are the holes and splits that run through the foliage, giving it an almost ‘Swiss cheese’ like appearance.

The leaves are also quite large in size, growing up to 2 meters, and have beautiful green foliage.

Furthermore, the Monstera Blanchetii has well-established root systems that will help provide stability as the plant grows along its support.

Monstera Blanchetii Care Needs

Monstera Blanchetii is a fairly easy plant to care for and can thrive with just the basic requirements.

Here are a few tips to help you provide the best possible care for your indoors plants thrive:

Lighting

Monstera Blanchetii, also known as Swiss Cheese plants typically grow in warm climates with low levels of light than other house plants. This makes them an optimum choice for indoor house plants.

When finding the right lighting environment for Monstera Blanchetiis, it’s best to err on the side of caution and opt for bright to medium, indirect light.

Since they are climbing tropical plants in nature, Monstera Blanchetii hate direct sunlight and can be easily scorched by any strong rays from a window.

For Monstera Blanchetiis located inside the home, strive to ensure 8-10 hours of optimal lighting daily.

To supplement natural light, buy LED grow lights to provide 10-12 hours of additional lighting every day.

For Monstera Blanchetii owners seeking an ideal environment, look for a warm spot exposed to indirect or slightly filtered light but make sure not to put them in full shade when planting.

Signs your Monstera Blanchetii needs more light

If your Monstera Blanchetii isn’t getting enough light, you may notice the following signs:

  • Leaves losing their glossy green hue and turning yellow
  • Leaf tips curling inwards or browning on the edges
  • Stunted growth with few leaves forming
  • Leaves that are small and thinning out

How to Maximize Light Exposure?

In order to maximize light exposure, Here are a few tips that may be helpful:

  • Rotate your plant periodically to ensure even lighting on all sides.
  • Position your Monstera Blanchetii near east, south or west facing windows for optimal light exposure.
  • Supplement natural light with LED grow lights if sunlight is limited.
  • Use sheer curtains to diffuse bright direct sunlight and avoid burning the foliage.

Watering & Humidity

To grow tropical plants, you must give it optimal watering and humidity conditions. 

Remember that moderation is key when it comes to watering, as it requires only a moderate amount to flourish.

To determine the perfect timing for hydration, monitor the top two inches of the soil; when you observe that they have dried out, it’s time to water the plant.

To make this assessment, you can use various techniques, such as the finger test, poking a stick, or utilizing a moisture meter.

Among these, a moisture meter is the most reliable and efficient, with a reading of 3 indicating that the soil is dry and requires watering.

The frequency of watering your Monstera Blanchetii is largely dependent upon the season.

With once-a-week watering sufficing during the more active growing seasons of summer and spring, and a reduced frequency of once every two weeks in the winter when growth is slower or dormant.

In terms of humidity, Monstera Blanchetii prefer humidity to be around 60-80%, but can also tolerate lower levels of 40%.

In order to create an optimum humidity environment for the plant, try using a humidifier or misting the leaves with a spray bottle several times a week.

How to Ensure the Right Humidity Level?

Here are a few tips to help you provide the right humidity environment for your Monstera Blanchetii:

  • Use a humidifier in rooms with dry air.
  • Place pebble trays filled with water near the plant.
  • Group plants together as their transpiration helps raise the humidity levels.
  • Misting the leaves with a spray bottle several times a week.
  • Using a terracotta pot to absorb and slowly release moisture into the air.

Low Humidity Signs

  • Leaves becoming dry and crispy
  • Brown tips on leaves
  • Yellowing of leaves.

Too High Humidity Signs

  • Bacterial and fungal growth on leaves
  • Drooping of leaves
  • Root rot
  • Leaves becoming too soft and limp

Fertilizing

Regular fertilization is important for the health of your Monstera Blanchetii. Fertilizers provide essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, that are necessary for the plant to grow.

The best time to fertilize your Monstera Blanchetii is during the active growing seasons of spring and summer.

Always look for a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, and apply it at the recommended rate of 1 teaspoon per gallon of soil.

Be sure to water your Monstera Blanchetii before fertilizing as this will help the fertilizer to penetrate the soil more effectively.

Over-fertilization should be avoided as it can lead to nutrient leaf burn and can weaken the plant.

Why Monstera Blanchetii should be fertilized?

  • Fertilizing your Monstera Blanchetii helps to provide it with key nutrients that are necessary for strong growth.
  • Fertilizers can also help improve soil health and promote healthy root growth, as well as prevent nutrient deficiencies.
  • Regular fertilization will ensure that the plant remains vigorous and continues to produce beautiful foliage.
  • Regular fertilization can also help to increase the plant’s resistance to pests and diseases, as well as improve its overall health.
  • Finally, fertilizing your Monstera Blanchetii helps it to grow faster, which makes it a great choice for those who want a fuller-looking plant in a shorter amount of time.

What Fertilizer is Best for Monstera Blanchetii

The best type of fertilizer for Monstera Blanchetii is a balanced fertilizer that contains the three major nutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). A good example of this is 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.

These fertilizers provide the plant with all the necessary nutrients in an easily absorbable form that helps to promote healthy growth.

It is also important to use a rich organic mix fertilizer with trace elements such as iron, magnesium and calcium, as these are essential for the plant’s overall health and growth.

Product recommendation

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How to Apply Fertilizer

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to fertilize your Monstera Blanchetii:

  1. Water your plant thoroughly before applying fertilizer. This will help the fertilizer penetrate the soil more effectively.
  2. Measure out 1 teaspoon of fertilizer per gallon of soil and mix it into the topsoil layer.
  3. Once applied, give the soil another light watering to help it absorb the nutrients.
  4. Fertilize your Monstera Blanchetii every two weeks during its active growing months for optimal results.

Signs of Over-fertilization

  • Yellowing of the leaves
  • Brown spots on the leaves
  • Leaves curling and wilting

Signs of Under-fertilization

  • Stunted growth
  • Smaller leaves
  • Yellowing of the leaves

Pruning and Trimming

Pruning and trimming are essential for keeping your Monstera Blanchetii looking its best.

So, why prune your Monstera Blanchetii?

Prune your Monstera Blanchetii to remove any dead or damaged leaves, stems and roots. This helps to encourage new growth and maintain an attractive shape.

It can also help to promote the development of healthy foliage. Pruning is especially important for keeping the plant from becoming too dense and overgrown.

You can also trim your Monstera Blanchetii to control its size and shape. Trimming the stems will help to keep them from becoming too long and unsightly.

Tools Needed for Pruning and Trimming

To prune or trim your Monstera Blanchetii, you’ll need a pair of sharp scissors or pruning shears.

Make sure they are sharp and clean before you begin, as this will help to ensure that you don’t damage the plant or spread any disease.

It is also a good idea to wear gloves while working with your Monstera Blanchetii to protect your hands from any potential irritants.

How to Prune Monstera Blanchetii

Follow these steps to prune your Monstera Blanchetii correctly:

  • Step 1: Identify any dead, damaged or diseased leaves, stems and roots.
  • Step 2: Cut away the affected areas with sharp scissors or pruning shears. Make sure to cut back to the point of origin for optimal results.
  • Step 3: Discard the trimmed parts in a trashcan and clean your tools with rubbing alcohol before moving on to the next plant.
  • Step 4: Water your Monstera Blanchetii thoroughly after pruning to help promote healthy growth.

Propagation

Monstera Blanchetii is a great plant for propagating, as it easily produces new plants from cuttings.

The best time to propagate Monstera Blanchetii is during its active growing season in the spring and summer months.

There are two methods for propagating Monstera Blanchetii – water propagation and soil propagation.

Water Propagation

Water propagation is an easy way to propagate Monstera Blanchetii.

  • Simply take a stem cutting with some of the leaves attached, and place it in a jar or vase of water.
  • Make sure that at least two nodes (the part of the stem where the leaves attach to) are submerged in the water.
  • Place your jar or vase in a bright, indirect light location and change out the water every few days.
  • In a few weeks, you should see roots begin to form on the cutting. Once they have grown to 1-2 inches long, you can transplant the cutting into soil.

Soil Propagation

Soil propagation is another popular method for propagating Monstera Blanchetii.

  • Take a stem cutting from the mother plants and dip it in rooting hormone powder to promote root growth.
  • Next, fill a pot with well-draining potting soil and make a small hole in the center.
  • Place the cutting into the soil and cover with a thin layer of soil, then water it lightly.
  • Place your pot in a bright, indirect light location and keep the soil moist but not soggy. In a few weeks, you should see new growth sprouting from your Monstera Blanchetii cutting.
  • Once it has established itself, you can transplant it into a larger pot or outdoors in your garden.

Potting & Repotting

When it comes to potting and repotting Monstera plants, there are a few important things to keep in mind.

  • First, make sure you use a pot with plenty of drainage holes at the bottom. This will help to prevent root rot and other issues caused by excess moisture.
  • When repotting your Monstera Blanchetii, choose a pot that is only slightly bigger than the current one.
  • This will help to ensure that the monstera doesn’t become root-bound too quickly.
  • Finally, use a well-draining potting mix when planting your Monstera Blanchetii. A mix of perlite, peat moss and compost is ideal for this plant.

Signs your Monstera Blanchetii needs repoting

There are a few telltale signs that your Monstera Blanchetii needs to be repotted.

  • If you notice that the plant is becoming root-bound, with its roots starting to wrap around each other, then it’s time for a new pot.
  • You may also notice that the soil in the current pot is becoming compacted or difficult to keep moist.
  • Additionally, if you see yellowing leaves, it could be a sign that the roots of your Monstera Blanchetii are in need of more space.

How to pot & repot Monstera Blanchetii step by step

Supplies and tools needed:

Step-by-step procedure

  • Step 1: Gently remove your Monstera Blanchetii from its current pot. Carefully shake off the excess soil and inspect the roots.
  • Step 2: If necessary, use your scissors to trim away any dead or damaged roots before repotting.
  • Step 3: Place your Monstera Blanchetii in the new pot, and fill it with a well-draining potting mix. Here are some of the best pots for Monstera Blanchetii to choose from.
  • Step 4: Gently press down the soil to ensure that it is firmly packed around the roots.
  • Step 5: Water your Monstera Blanchetii thoroughly, and then drain any excess water from the bottom of the pot.
  • Step 6: Place your Monstera Blanchetii in a bright, indirect light location and water as needed.
  • Step 7: Prune away any dead leaves or stems at the base of the plant.
  • Step 8: Disinfect your scissors with rubbing alcohol before and after pruning to prevent the spread of disease.

Toxicity of Monstera Blanchetii

Monstera Blanchetii is toxic to pets (cats and dogs) and humans, especially when ingested.

The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals which can cause irritation to the skin, mouth, and throat if it comes into contact with them.

Ingestion of the plant can lead to drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and abdominal pain in animals.

Treatment for Toxicity

If you suspect that your pet or a family member has ingested Monstera Blanchetii, seek medical attention immediately.

Treatment for toxicity may include the administration of activated charcoal and intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration. It is important to monitor the patient closely until all symptoms have subsided.

Prevention of Toxicity

The best way to prevent toxicity is to ensure that your Monstera Blanchetii is always kept out of reach of animals and children.

You should also regularly inspect the plant for signs of damage or disease, and prune away any dead leaves or stems as soon as possible.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to wear gloves when handling your Monstera Blanchetii to protect yourself from any potential irritation.

Common Problems with Monstera Blanchetii

Monstera plants can be susceptible to a few common problems that can affect its growth and health.

The most common problems are:

Pests Infestation

Common pests such as spider mites, thrips, aphids and mealybugs can affect your Monstera Blanchetii.

If you notice any signs of infestation, it is important to act quickly and treat the plant with an insecticidal soap. Here’s a more detailed guide on how to treat thrips on your Monstera Blanchetii.

Diseases

Monstera Blanchetii can also be prone to certain diseases such as root rot, yellowing leaves, leaves dropping and bacterial leaf spot.

Treating these diseases as soon as possible is essential in order to prevent them from spreading. Start by removing any affected leaves and roots, then apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.

You can also use a copper fungicide or neem oil to help treat the disease. Preventive measures such as proper watering and sanitation can help to reduce the risk of disease.

If you want to learn more about pests and disease control for your Monstera Blanchetii, you can read here.

Suggested Uses of Monstera Blanchetii

  • Monstera Blanchetii is a great addition to your home or garden. It can be used as an ornamental plant, ground cover, potted houseplant, or even a tall floor plant.
  • The rich green leaves of the Monstera Blanchetii will add a wonderfully tropical accent, depth and texture to any room, while its air-purifying qualities make it perfect for improving indoor air quality.
  • The plant is also a great option for those looking to create a tropical or jungle-inspired look in their home or garden.
  • Monstera Blanchetii can also be used as an edging plant in your garden and can be trained to climb onto trellises or walls.
  • With its unique foliage, it is an ideal choice for adding a touch of the exotic to your garden.

Where to Buy Monstera Blanchetii

You can find the plant for sale at many major retailers such as Amazon, Lowe’s, Etsy, and Home Depot.

You can also have your plants shipped online from specialty nurseries and garden centers. Be sure to do your research before buying to make sure the plant is healthy and free from pests and diseases.

Local UPS ground shipping has made the online shopping easier. 

Conclusion

Monstera Blanchetii is a stunningly beautiful plant that can add texture and color to any indoor or outdoor space.

It is relatively easy to care for, but caution should be taken when handling the plant as it contains calcium oxalate crystals that may cause irritation.

With proper care, this tropical beauty can bring years of enjoyment to your home or garden. Keep in mind that it is important to inspect the plant regularly for any signs of pests, diseases or damage.

Finally, make sure you purchase your Monstera Blanchetii from a reputable source in order to get the best quality indoors plants possible. 

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