The Monstera deliciosa, also known as window leaf, is becoming increasingly popular in this country. If you are wondering whether you can also cultivate the attractive houseplant from Central and South America in clay granules, it's best to just read on.
Can I cultivate Monstera in clay granules?
You can easily keep Monstera in clay granules and therefore inHydroculture. To do this, you need a large, bulbous vase in which the plant has good support. A water level indicator is also essential. Clay granules can also be used purely fordrainage for Monstera.
How do I care for Monstera in clay granules?
The most important care measure for a Monstera in clay granules isregular fertilization. Give the window leaf a suitable nutrient solution every time you water.
The clay granules cannot absorb nutrients and make them available to the plant. It is therefore essential to continuously supply the Monstera from outside. Otherwise, the tropical beauty will starve to death over time.
You should also change thevase water regularly to prevent algae from forming. When changing the water, clean the container itself thoroughly.
What are the advantages of keeping Monstera in clay granules?
Keeping a Monstera deliciosa in clay granules has benefits for both the plant and its human inhabitants:
- No soil is used in hydroponics in clay granules. Instead, the plant stands with its aerial roots in the water. This means that neither fungus gnats nor other pests can settle.
- If the Monstera is cared for properly and the water is changed regularly, root rot can almost be ruled out.
- The Monstera deliciosa needs a higherhumidity for absolute well-being. This is automatically the case when kept in clay granules and water.
What are the disadvantages of keeping Monstera in clay granules?
There are no real disadvantages to keeping Monstera in clay granules. However, you should know that the plant as a whole and its distinctive leaves usually remainsmaller in hydroponics.
How do I use clay granules for Monstera as drainage?
To use clay granules for Monstera purely as drainage, proceed as follows:
- Rinse the clay granules until the water no longer turns brown.
- Soak clay granules for 24 hours.
- Cover the drain hole with gravel or pottery shards.
- Pour prepared clay granules as a 2-6 cm high drainage layer depending on the size of the planter.
- Add substrate.
- Insert the plant, water it and then care for it appropriately.
Note: The clay granules help to prevent waterlogging in the Monstera pot.
Tip
When it makes particular sense to keep Monstera in clay granules
If you have limited space at home, the slower growth of Monstera in clay granules will benefit you. It is also possible to propagate them hydroponically. Take cuttings from the mother plant and let them re-root in clay granules and water. It is then up to you whether you want to cultivate the plants permanently or plant them in soil.