MONSTERA THAI CONSTELLATION C

 You’ll be getting the exact specimen in the photo.

 

As it is a growing live plant, there may be superficial differences such as minor folds, slight discolouration, minimal crisping on some leaf edges, proportionally small loss of foliage to the overall size etc (but nothing dramatically different or we will update the photos accordingly).

 

Apart from the plant, we want to make sure that you’re off to a strong start! Every plant in our Tropical Exotics series is thus equipped with the following:

 

Soil and Planter:

To mimic the natural conditions and combat the problem of root rot commonly found in Aroids planted in poor-quality soil - your plant will be rooted and nestled in our Super-Soilless Aroid Mix. A perfect blend of chunky substrates that balances hydration and aeration. To further enhance drainage and airflow to the roots, it is planted in a breathable planter with “breathing slits” and drainage holes.

 

Fertiliser:

You’ll find the soil surface sprinkled with little, discreet-looking grey pellets (they look really good on the Aroid Mix). One of the most preferred fertilisers by growers of tropical exotics in Singapore, the Made-in-Japan Nutricote Fertiliser is prized for its ability to enhance growth and provide a slow release of nutrients. This precise and controlled release is critical for such sensitive plants which can experience “root burn” if regular fertilisers are used. With this head-start, you’ll only need to re-fertilise about 4 months after your plant is brought home.

 

Pesticide:

We understand how frustrating it can be when pests attack our houseplants. To build up the defence, we have incorporated a sprinkle of Starxle-G Pesticide into the media. It is absorbed by the plant which helps create a bubble of defence and reduces the chances of attacks by common sucking insects (mealybugs, aphids, fungus gnats, scales, leaf miners, leaf hoppers etc). Since it is a systemic pesticide, in order to maintain the shield, we recommend applying it again about a month from when you bring your plant home

 Light:

• Bright indirect sunlight such as at a well-lit balcony, window or corridor

• Growlights can be used to supplement/replace the sun if bright indirect sunlight is not available. Do make sure to start with a lower intensity/ further distance from the plant and adjust accordingly

• Variegated plants contain less chlorophyll, requiring more light than regular houseplants to make sufficient “food”. However, avoid direct sunlight (eg: outdoors) or the vulnerable variegated areas will start to “burn”

Water:

• Water deeply and thoroughly when the soil surface is dry. Approximately once every 1-2 days (depending on your growing area)

Humidity:

• Generally, Singapore’s weather is humid enough for Aroids to thrive. However, if your location is dry (perhaps on high floors), placing a humidifier near the plants will be helpful

Nutrients:

• Essential to provide nutrient boosts for better growth. To avoid burning sensitive plants like tropical exotics, fertilisers that are slow-release would be recommended (eg: Nutricote Fertiliser)

Defence:

• Against pests: To create a bubble of defence against common sucking pests like mealybugs, apply systemic pesticide regularly (eg: Starxle G Pesticide)

• Against fungal-related diseases: Spray fungicide on affected areas (eg: Neem Oil)

Climb:

• Since it is an epiphytic plant (naturally grows on trees), you could provide it with a Moss Pole, and it will reward you with neater growth and larger leaves as it climbs

Others:

• You may wipe the leaves occasionally to keep them dust-free. However, do avoid having water on the leaves for prolonged periods to avoid fungal-related issues

• More care tips for general gardening can be found here