Light Requirements
Monstera obliqua thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near a south or west facing window where it can get plenty of sunlight without getting scorched. Direct hot sunlight will burn the leaves. Low light will cause leggy and weak growth.
Ideal lighting conditions:
- Bright, indirect sunlight for 4-6 hours a day
- South or west facing windows are perfect
- Can tolerate some early morning direct sun
- Avoid direct hot afternoon sun
Watering and Soil Needs
Obliqua prefers moist, well-draining soil. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom holes.
Tips for watering obliqua:
- Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry
- Always check soil before watering, do not water on schedule
- Water until it drains from the bottom to flush out salts
- Use room temperature filtered or distilled water
- Let excess water drain away before returning the plant to its cachepot
Use a well-aerated potting mix, or create your own using:
- 2 parts peat moss or coco coir
- 2 parts good quality potting soil
- 1 part perlite or orchid bark for drainage
Humidity Preferences
Monstera obliqua thrives in high humidity levels of 60-80%. Recreate a tropical environment for your plant.
Ways to increase humidity:
- Use a humidifier
- Place its pot on a pebble tray with water
- Mist the leaves occasionally with room temperature water
- Create a humidity tent by placing it inside a clear plastic bag
Temperature Needs
Monstera obliqua prefers warm temperatures between 65°F to 80°F. Avoid drafty areas and keep away from air conditioners.
Tips for providing ideal temperatures:
- Keep in the warmest room of the house
- Avoid drafty windows, doors, and air conditioner vents
- Use a space heater during cold months if needed
- Move to a shady outdoor location in summers
Fertilizer
Feed obliqua monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Fertilize every 6-8 weeks in fall and winter.
Fertilizing guidelines:
- Use a houseplant fertilizer or tropical plant food
- Dilute to half strength concentration
- Fertilize from spring through early fall
- Reduce feeding in winter months
- Flush the soil monthly with plain water to prevent buildup
Support and Pruning
Provide a moss pole, trellis, or other support for the obliqua’s aerial roots to cling to. Trim off any dead or damaged leaves and stems to maintain an attractive appearance.
Caring for aerial roots and pruning:
- Use a natural coir or moss pole for support, not a wooden stake
- Keep the pole moist by misting occasionally
- Attach new aerial roots gently with plant ties or Velcro
- Prune off yellow, crispy leaves using sterilized shears
- Cut off leggy stems back to a node
- Wipe tools with alcohol after each cut
Propagating Monstera Obliqua
Propagate obliqua by taking stem cuttings with a couple nodes or dividing the rhizome root ball. Propagation is slow but it can produce clones of the parent plant.
Methods for propagation:
- Take 4-6 inch stem cuttings just below a node
- Use a clean, sharp knife or shears
- Dip cut end in rooting hormone (optional)
- Plant in small pots with well-draining soil
- Cover with plastic to maintain humidity
- Keep evenly moist, not soggy
- Propagation takes several months
- Dividing the rhizome also works but is very slow
Common Issues with Obliqua
- Leaf spotting from too much direct sun
- Crispy brown leaf edges due to low humidity
- Yellowing leaves caused by overwatering
- Leggy growth with small leaves from insufficient light
- Dropping leaves due to sudden temperature changes
With the proper growing conditions and care, the rare Monstera obliqua can thrive in your home. Pay close attention to its light, water, humidity, temperature, and soil needs. Provide a moss pole for support as it matures. Your diligence will be rewarded with this fascinating and visually striking tropical vine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Monstera Obliqua
How do I increase humidity for my obliqua?
Use a humidifier, place the pot on a pebble tray, or create a humidity tent by putting the pot inside a clear plastic bag. Also mist the leaves occasionally with room temperature water.
What type of water should I use for my obliqua?
Use room temperature filtered or distilled water. Avoid hard tap water which can build up minerals and salts.
Why are the leaves on my obliqua turning yellow?
Yellow leaves are usually caused by overwatering. Allow the soil to partially dry out before watering again. Also, check that the pot has drainage holes at the bottom.
How can I encourage bigger leaves on my obliqua?
Give it bright indirect light, use a fertilizer during growing season, keep humidity high, and provide a moss pole for support. Trimming off small lower leaves can help too.
Should I mist my obliqua’s leaves?
Occasional misting provides added humidity and washes off any dust. But do it sparingly, as excess moisture can lead to fungal issues. Always use room temperature water.
What potting mix is best for Monstera obliqua?
Use a chunky, well-draining potting mix. A good recipe is 2 parts peat moss or coco coir, 2 parts potting soil, and 1 part perlite or orchid bark.
How do I propagate my obliqua?
Take 4-6 inch stem cuttings just below a node. Dip cut end in rooting hormone (optional) and plant in small pots with well-draining soil. Cover to maintain humidity. Propagation takes several months.
Why is my obliqua plant leaning over or looking leggy?
Insufficient light causes weak, leggy growth in obliqua. Move it closer to a bright window or supplement with a grow light to encourage compact, lush growth.
Can I grow obliqua outdoors in summer?
Yes, obliqua can be moved to a shady spot outdoors when temperatures stay above 65°F all season long. Acclimate it gradually before placing it outside permanently.
Conclusion
The exceptionally rare Monstera obliqua deserves special treatment by any hobbyist lucky enough to acquire one. Pay close attention to providing this tropical vine with bright indirect light, warm temperatures, high humidity, moist soil, and proper potting mix. Aim to mimic its natural growing conditions as closely as possible. With the right care, your obliqua will flourish and its intricate leaves will add incredible beauty wherever you place it. Be diligent in caring for it properly, and this unusual plant will be a prized addition to your indoor jungle.