Why Your Monstera Adansonii Plant Is Growing Sideways

Introduction

Monstera Adansonii, also known as the Swiss Cheese Vine, is a popular and visually striking houseplant. Its unique leaves with holes resembling Swiss cheese make it a favorite among plant enthusiasts. However, sometimes Monstera Adansonii plants can exhibit unusual growth patterns, such as growing sideways. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this sideways growth and discuss ways to rectify it.

Understanding the Sideways Growth

When a Monstera Adansonii plant grows sideways instead of upwards, it is often an indication of inadequate light exposure. Like many other houseplants, Monstera Adansonii requires sufficient sunlight to grow and thrive. Without adequate light, the plant may start to lean or grow in the direction that receives the most light.

Additionally, insufficient support can also contribute to sideways growth. As Monstera Adansonii plants grow, they develop aerial roots that help them climb and cling onto surfaces. If these roots do not have proper support or something to attach to, the plant may start growing sideways in an attempt to find stability.

Providing Adequate Light

One of the main reasons for sideways growth in Monstera Adansonii plants is a lack of proper lighting. These plants thrive in bright indirect light, similar to their cousin plant, the Monstera Deliciosa. To ensure your Monstera Adansonii grows upright instead of sideways, it is crucial to provide it with adequate light.

Place your Monstera Adansonii near a north or east-facing window where it can receive bright but indirect sunlight throughout the day. If natural light is limited in your space, you can also use artificial grow lights specifically designed for indoor plants. Position the grow lights above the plant at an appropriate distance according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Remember to rotate your plant periodically to ensure even exposure to light on all sides. This will prevent the plant from leaning or growing sideways towards the light source.

Providing Proper Support

In addition to adequate lighting, providing proper support for your Monstera Adansonii plant is essential to encourage upward growth. As mentioned earlier, these plants develop aerial roots that allow them to attach themselves to surfaces and climb upwards.

To help your Monstera Adansonii grow upright, provide it with a sturdy trellis or moss pole. Gently guide the aerial roots towards the support and secure them using soft ties or plant clips. As the plant grows, continue to guide and attach the aerial roots to the support structure.

By giving your Monstera Adansonii a stable support system, you will help redirect its growth upwards and prevent sideways growth. This will result in a healthier and more visually appealing plant.

Pruning and Propagation

If your Monstera Adansonii has already grown sideways, don’t worry! You can rectify the issue through pruning and propagation.

Start by identifying the main stem that is growing sideways. Use sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors to make a clean cut just above a node or leaf junction. This will encourage new growth from that point onwards.

Next, take the pruned stem and propagate it into a new plant. Fill a small pot with well-draining soil or a mixture of perlite and peat moss. Make a small hole in the soil and insert the stem, ensuring that at least one node is buried in the soil.

Water the newly propagated stem lightly and place it in a warm and humid location with bright indirect light. Mist the plant regularly to maintain humidity levels and promote root development. With time, you will have a new Monstera Adansonii plant growing upright.

Conclusion

Sideways growth in Monstera Adansonii plants can be attributed to inadequate lighting and lack of proper support. By providing your plant with adequate light and a sturdy support system, you can rectify this growth issue and encourage upright growth. Additionally, through pruning and propagation, you can create new plants from the sideways-growing stems.

Remember, each plant has unique requirements, and it’s important to observe and understand your Monstera Adansonii’s specific needs. With proper care and attention, your Monstera Adansonii will thrive, showing off its beautiful foliage in all its glory.