How much light do Swiss cheese plants need? Well if you’re looking to help this iconic symbol of Switzerland reach its full cheese-producing potential, you’ll need to get the plant the right amount of light. Let’s explore what kind of sunshine your plant needs to thrive!
Swiss cheese plants (Monstera deliciosa) hail from tropical climates, so they need plenty of light to grow well. It’s best to provide your plant with about 8 hours of morning sun, but because of its tropical roots, it can handle a bit more in the summer. Be wary of direct afternoon light though – Swiss cheese plants can be turned into Swiss cheese themselves if they get too much!
When given enough light, your Swiss cheese plant will reward you with lush leaves adorned with those iconic slits. It’s almost as good as a Swiss cheese fondue – almost! Inadequate light can lead to a limp, stretched out appearance or yellowish leaves. Move your plant to a brighter spot and the foliage will thank you.
If you can’t provide your Swiss cheese plant with bright, sunlight, you’ll need to supplement with bright artificial light sources. LED grow lights or fluorescent bulbs placed within 12 to 24 inches of the plant should help maintain consistent light exposure.
To always keep your Swiss cheese plant in the prime of its life, provide it with a light, rich soil that’s well-drained, as well as a periodic mist to provide humidity. You’ll also want to make sure the soil is never soggy. Swiss cheese plants don’t do so well in soggy conditions – it’s like eating Swiss cheese fondue without any bread!
Follow these tips and your Swiss cheese plant will stay healthy and strong, producing plenty of delicious leaves. And maybe, just maybe, it’ll also start producing a little bit of cheese! Okay, probably not, but you get the idea – with the right amount of light, your Swiss cheese plant will live up to its namesake!