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Complete guide to mini monstera care

This fast-growing climber is an easygoing Instagram darling. Consider us influenced.

Close-up detail photo of a mini monstera leaf on a white studio background

Rhaphidophora tetrasperma, also known as mini monstera or as we call him - Ralph, is a trendy indoor plant that has gained popularity due to its unique foliage and easy care requirements. You’ve probably spotted it all over your social feed. This plant is native to Southeast Asia and can grow up to 3-6 feet in height when given the right conditions. Here’s how to get yours going:

  • A mini monstera loves to be somewhere bright but not in direct sun. It’ll also be ok in light shade but it’ll grow more slowly.
  • This plant likes its soil lightly moist. Water it when the top two inches of soil feel dry. It’ll need less in winter.
  • Give your plant a feed once per month in spring and summer to keep him growing healthily. It won’t need it in winter.

About mini monsteras

This plant is often known as the mini monstera, but it’s not actually related to monstera deliciosa. Even so, they’re similar in lots of ways. They both have those distinctive hole-y leaves; they’re both climbers; they both need relatively little care. This one just fits in smaller spaces.

Like monstera deliciosa, rhaphidophora tetrasperma likes conditions from quite bright to moderately shady. In the wild it grows in moist forests in Thailand and Malaysia, so try to give it conditions as similar as possible. 

This plant grows as a vine with very long stems. That gives you several options for how to grow it. Put it on a shelf or in a hanging pot and let the stems dangle. Give it something to climb up, like a moss pole. Or keep it compact by trimming its stems to keep them short. It won’t hurt it at all. However you grow it, this plant is guaranteed to become one of your favourites.

A mini monstera in a pink dipped decorative pot on a desk in a home office

How much light does my mini monstera need?

A rhaphidophora tetrasperma thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but avoid exposing it to direct sunlight for prolonged periods as it can burn the leaves. If your plant receives too much direct light, you can move it to a spot with more shade or use sheer curtains to filter the light. With the right amount of light, it will grow incredibly quickly.

How often should I water my mini monstera?

The rhaphidophora tetrasperma prefers evenly moist soil but not waterlogged. Allow the top two inches of the soil to dry out before watering again. When watering, make sure to water thoroughly and let all the water drain out of the pot's drainage holes. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure not to let the plant sit in standing water. In the winter months, you can reduce the frequency of watering as the plant's growth slows down.

What type of soil does my mini monstera need?

A rhaphidophora tetrasperma prefers well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. When repotting your mini monstera, you can use a typical houseplant soil, as long as there’s plenty of drainage.

Does my mini monstera need a humid environment?

Your rhaphidophora tetrasperma prefers high humidity levels. You can increase humidity by placing a humidifier near the plant or popping a tray of water near it. Another option is to group your plants together as they release moisture into the air through transpiration. Mist the plant occasionally, but avoid misting it too frequently as this can lead to fungal growth on the leaves.

What’s the best temperature for my mini monstera?

A rhaphidophora tetrasperma prefers warm temperatures between 18-25°C. Avoid placing the plant in draughty areas or near cold windows as this can damage the leaves. In the winter months, make sure the plant isn’t exposed to temperatures below 13°C. Brr!

Should I fertilise my mini monstera?

Your rhaphidophora tetrasperma will benefit from regular fertilisation during the growing season. You can use a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2-3 weeks, or a slow-release fertiliser every 2-3 months. In the winter months, don’t worry about fertilisation as the plant's growth slows down.

Do I need to prune my mini monstera?

Your rhaphidophora tetrasperma doesn’t need extensive pruning, but you can trim off any yellow or damaged leaves to encourage new growth. You can also pinch off the tips of the plant to encourage bushier growth. If your mini monstera gets a bit too long for your liking, just trim the stem, it won’t mind.

Can I propagate my mini monstera?

Your rhaphidophora tetrasperma can be propagated through stem cuttings. Cut a stem with several leaves attached and place it in a jar of water until roots develop. Once the roots have grown, you can plant the cutting in well-draining soil.

Common mini monstera pests and diseases

Rhaphidophora tetrasperma is relatively pest-resistant, but it can attract spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. You can treat these pests by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or using insecticidal soap.

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