Swiss cheese vine care guide
Monstera adansonii
Quick answer
Water your Swiss cheese vine when the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer that’s typically every 6 to 8 days.
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- Light
- Bright, indirect light
- Typical interval
- Every 6 to 8 days · summer
Every 11 to 17 days · winter - Climate
- 18–27 °C (64–81 °F)
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- Pet safety
- Toxic to cats and dogs
When and how to water
3 cm (1.2 in)
- Summer · Jun–AugEvery 6 to 8 days
- Winter · Dec–FebEvery 11 to 17 days
Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Light and placement
Bright, indirect light
Swiss cheese vine thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it 1–2 meters back from an east or west window, or behind a sheer curtain on a south window.
Feeding
Feed your Swiss cheese vine every 30 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Climate18–27 °C (64–81 °F)
Humidity60–80%
During leafy growth, aim for 18–27 °C (64–81 °F). For routine indoor care, keep it above about 10 °C (50 °F) and avoid cold drafts. This is a care guideline, not an exact damage threshold. Cooler overwintering depends on the species and its rest conditions.
It does best at 60–80% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Wear gloves when you cut or repot it. Keep the sap away from your eyes and skin, and wash your hands afterwards.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses NC State Extension Plant Toolbox where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water a Swiss cheese vine?
Water your Swiss cheese vine (Monstera adansonii) when the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer, that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days.
Sources3 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineTaxonomy · accepted name · classification · synonyms
- North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant ToolboxIndoor habit · light · water · pH · humidity · temperature · support · pests · root rot · leaf spots
- Royal Horticultural SocietyLight · compost · moisture · humidity · feeding · winter · support · pests
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