Monsteras and their fenestrations!!

What are fenestrations?

Fenestrations are the openings that pierce the leaves of a plant. Many plant families, including monsteras, use fenestrations in various ways. They can be corrugated, round, narrow, big and small.

Why do they develop them?

Every botanist has their theories but these are the most common three that describe their function

1. In tropical rainforests, winds are strong and rains are heavy. The holes allow water and air to pass through the leaf without damaging it. 

2. The holes allow light to pass through and reach the youngest or lowest leaves of the plant. 

3. The holes help the plant "blend in" with its surroundings and make it less attractive to herbivores.

In the genus Monstera, most of them fenestrate but not the same. The Monstera adansonii fenestrates in a round patterned look, but the Monstera Peru has fewer fenestration and smaller when it reaches maturity. 

Learn a basic guide to caring for Monsteras

LIGHT
Monsteras prefers bright indirect light, but will tolerate medium to low light. Too little light will slow growth. It cannot tolerate direct sunlight and will burn the leaves.

WATER
Water monsteras when it is 75% dry or when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering will cause yellow leaves and may die.

HUMIDITY
Monsteras grow well in low humidity, but as tropical plants, they enjoy high humidity, such as 60% or higher. High humidity will cause the plant to thrive and grow faster. An additional mist will be beneficial for larger, fenestrated leaves.

TEMPERATURE
Monsteras prefer temperatures between 65 and 90 degrees.

FOOD
All monsteras like to be fed monthly or every other month with a bit of general houseplant fertilizer.

TOXICITY
Monsteras are toxic to pets and humans; Consuming this plant is highly irritating, especially to the mouth and even the stomach when ingested.

 
Additional Tips*
These plants will benefit from a moss support or a coconut fiber support. Any type of support that can contribute to its growth pattern will help this plant reach maturity.

Use a well-draining substrate, such as a mixture of coconut fiber, perlite, pine bark, and activated charcoal. This ensures good aeration and prevents excess humidity.