How to Grow Cheese Plant Outdoors

If you are looking for a plant that can add charm and elegance to your outdoor space, the cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) is a great option. Its large, heart-shaped leaves with interesting perforations make it a popular choice for many gardeners. In this article, we will discuss how to grow cheese plant outdoors successfully.

Choosing the Right Location

When it comes to growing cheese plants outdoors, choosing the right location is crucial. Cheese plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight, so it’s best to find a spot that receives partial shade throughout the day. Direct sunlight can scorch their delicate leaves.

Cheese plants thrive in warm and humid conditions, so it’s also essential to choose a location that is protected from cold drafts and strong winds. They do well in temperatures between 60-85°F.

Preparing the Soil

The next step is preparing the soil for your cheese plant. These plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A good potting mix with peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite would be ideal.

You can also add some fertilizer to the soil before planting your cheese plant. A slow-release fertilizer with balanced nutrients will provide your plant with everything it needs to grow healthy and strong.

Planting Your Cheese Plant

Once you have chosen the right location and prepared the soil, it’s time to plant your cheese plant. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Choose a container that is slightly larger than the root ball of your cheese plant.
2. Fill the container with soil until it is about three-quarters full.
3. Gently remove your cheese plant from its nursery pot and place it in the center of the container.
4. Fill in any gaps around the plant with more soil until it reaches about an inch below the rim of the container.
5. Water your cheese plant thoroughly until the water runs out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the container.

Caring for Your Cheese Plant Outdoors

Now that your cheese plant is planted, it’s time to care for it properly. Here are some tips to help you keep your cheese plant healthy and happy:

• Water your cheese plant regularly, but make sure not to overwater it. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
• Fertilize your cheese plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.
• Prune your cheese plant regularly to remove any dead or damaged leaves. You can also trim back any leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
• Provide support for your cheese plant by using a moss pole or trellis. This will help it grow upright and prevent it from sprawling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water my cheese plant?

Cheese plants prefer moist soil, but they don’t like to sit in water. Water your cheese plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

How often should I fertilize my cheese plant?

Fertilize your cheese plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.

What should I do if my cheese plant is not growing?

If your cheese plant is not growing, make sure it is getting enough light and water. You can also try fertilizing it more frequently or repotting it into a larger container.

Can I grow cheese plants indoors?

Yes, cheese plants can be grown indoors as well. They prefer bright, indirect sunlight and moist soil.

Do cheese plants produce fruit?

Yes, cheese plants can produce fruit (edible fruit at that!). However, they usually only produce fruit when grown in their native tropical habitat.