Monstera deliciosa is the popular name for its large, jagged leaves, which resemble ribs. Many professionals and
decor trendsetters have adopted this species to decorate their spaces. In addition to its natural beauty, growing this plant is quite simple, as long as you meet its basic needs.
How to grow rib-of-adam?
The Adam's rib prefers
well-drained and slightly acidic soils , with good moisture retention capacity, but without waterlogging. It is also recommended to use a mixture of common soil with humus or substrate to provide more nutrients. It needs
regular watering , but always wait for the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot (putting your finger in the soil and checking whether it is damp or dry will help you get a better idea of the frequency). During the warmer months, watering can be more frequent, while in winter the
plant requires less water. Add slow-release organic fertilizer or a balanced fertilizer every 1-2 months to ensure good development and increase the lifespan of the species.
Is Adam's rib better indoors or outdoors?
The Adam's rib adapts well to both
indoor and outdoor environments , but there are some considerations for each situation. Indoors, it does best in places with
indirect lighting , as direct sunlight can burn its leaves, causing yellow or dry spots. For this reason, it is ideal to find a space that is close to a window, but be careful with the presence of light throughout the day. Furthermore, indoors, especially in winter, it is important
to maintain humidity in the environment , as drier air can harm growth. Using a humidifier or spraying water on the leaves is a simple measure, but it makes all the difference in cultivation.
In outdoor environments, the rib of Adam's can be grown in areas with
partial shade , such as under trees or on protected porches. When grown outdoors, the plant tends to
grow even more robust .
Tips for caring for your ribs
As we can see, the
care of the rib-of-adam is not that rigorous, but tips are never too much. Below, we have selected some general guidelines to keep the species always beautiful and growing healthily:
- Adequate light: The Adam's rib does not tolerate direct sunlight for long periods, as this can burn its leaves. The ideal is to place it in places with half-light. If it is indoors, a window with thin curtains is a good solution to mitigate the light.
- Water regularly, but do not overwater: Keep the soil moist, but never soggy. Let the soil dry out a little between waterings and always ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
- Fertilization: During spring and summer, when the plant is growing, fertilize every 4 to 6 weeks. In fall and winter, reduce the frequency as growth slows.
- Pruning and maintaining leaves: Remove dead or damaged leaves regularly to encourage healthy growth. If you want to control the size of the plant, you can prune it. In addition, Monstera adapts well to tutors, such as stakes, to grow vertically, which helps prevent it from spreading too much.
- Temperature and humidity: As it is a tropical species, the plant prefers temperatures between 18°C and 30°C. It also likes humidity, so if the environment is very dry, consider spraying its leaves with water or using a humidifier.