potting mix on Monstera
Quick answer
If your Monstera has potting mix, the most likely cause is: Monstera deliciosa requires a coarse, fast-draining aroid potting mix that balances moisture retention with adequate air porosity — typical retail potting soils suffocate Monstera roots within 48-72 hours of saturation due to insufficient perlite and bark content.
Start here:
- 1. Create aroid mix: 40% peat/coir, 30% perlite, 20% orchid bark, 10% charcoal — provides drainage while retaining adequate moisture
- 2. For commercial mixes: add 40% perlite to any standard potting soil to achieve proper aeration
Why Monstera gets potting mix
Monstera deliciosa requires a coarse, fast-draining aroid potting mix that balances moisture retention with adequate air porosity — typical retail potting soils suffocate Monstera roots within 48-72 hours of saturation due to insufficient perlite and bark content.
How to reverse potting mix on Monstera
- 1
Create aroid mix: 40% peat/coir, 30% perlite, 20% orchid bark, 10% charcoal — provides drainage while retaining adequate moisture
- 2
For commercial mixes: add 40% perlite to any standard potting soil to achieve proper aeration
- 3
Ensure pot has 2-3 drainage holes at least 1/2 inch diameter each; terracotta pots may need additional holes
- 4
Add 1-inch layer of broken pottery or coarse gravel at pot base to prevent drainage blockage
- 5
Repot every 18-24 months as soil degrades and air porosity declines; choose pots only 2 inches larger in diameter
Keep potting mix off this Monstera
Use aroid-specific potting mix with 30-40% perlite and 20% orchid bark; ensure pot has unobstructed drainage holes; never use standard garden soil or dense peat-based mixes alone.