Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma Indoor Care | Mini Monstera in Container
Learn how to grow Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma Indoors to add an alluring appeal to your home and garden. After going through this post, you’ll be able to plant and grow Mini Monstera in a cinch!
Scientific name: Rhaphidophora tetrasperma
Rhaphidophora tetrasperma or Mini Monstera Plant belongs to the genus Rhaphidophora and is native to Malaysia and Sothern Thailand. Although native to Asian countries, its popularity as a houseplant is growing around the globe. Don’t confuse it with plants such as Monstera Deliciosa or Epipremnum Pinnatum, as they belong to the same family Araceae and somewhat resemble Mini Monstera. The ability to thrive in bright indirect light makes it an ideal choice for indoor spaces. It looks great as a centerpiece in the container, balcony, or even in hanging baskets!
How to Grow Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma Indoors
Bright indirect light is ideal for growing Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma. Water only to keep the soil moist, but don’t let it turn soggy or completely dry. Early spring is the best time for propagation by planting stem cuttings. Go for a well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. Fertilize twice a month in the growing season with a well-balanced fertilizer diluted half to its strength.
Propagating Mini Monstera
Propagation is possible from both seeds and stem cutting. Among which the easiest way to propagate Mini Monstera Plant is by means of taking stem cutting. Here is how you can propagate Raphidophora:
- Use a sharp and sterilized tool such as scissors or pruning shears to take the stem cutting.
- Ensure that the stem cutting has a couple of nodes and remove the bottom half leaves.
- Plant the cutting in coco chips, potting mix, perlite, sphagnum moss, and water well.
- The cutting can also root in water, for which use a transparent jar or glass and clean water.
- Stem cutting will root in a couple of weeks, after which you can transplant it into the pot.
Choosing the Container
Go for a pot that’s at least 8-10 inches in depth as Raphidophora roots require space to grow. As for the material, choose one that doesn’t absorb moisture too quickly, such as glazed ceramic or plastic pots. Use terra cotta pots only as a last resort when any other pot is unavailable! Make sure that the pot has drainage holes at the bottom!
Repotting
Ideally, you should report the plant in the early spring as it’s in a growing phase and has coming months to adjust to the shock of repotting. When it becomes pot-bound and outgrows the container, you’ll know it’s time for repotting. One size larger pot than the previous one is enough; there is no need for any drastic change.
Temperature
Average room temperature ranging from 55 to 80 degrees F is suitable for growing Mini Monstera Plant. To avoid sudden temperature fluctuations, keep the plant protected from cold drafts of wind and excessive heat exposure.
Requirements for Growing Mini Monstera Plant
Location
Mini Monstera grows well in bright indirect light so choose the spot accordingly. Locate the pot near a west or east-facing window with drapes on or far enough that it doesn’t encounter direct sunlight for prolonged periods. Patio, balcony, or other such locations are also suitable for placing the pot as long as there is bright indirect light.
Soil
Well draining loose soil that’s rich in organic matter is ideal for growing the Mini Monstera plant. Some examples of such potting mix include an all-purpose houseplant potting mix, orchid bark or coco chips, and other such potting mixes that are well-draining. Add peat moss or perlite to the potting mix if it isn’t well-draining.
Watering
Water well and allow the excess water to drain from the bottom of the pot. Water again when the soil becomes dry an inch or two below the surface. Don’t let the soil completely dry out, but neither should you overwater as it may lead to root rot.
Humidity
It does well in high humid conditions, so if the surrounding air is dry, raise the humidity levels by using a humidifier. Misting or placing a pebble tray filled with water nearby the plant is another way to raise humidity levels.
Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma Care
Training
Mini Monstera is a vining plant, so it goes without saying that you’ll need to provide a support structure. Staking or installing trellis at the time of planting will provide a sturdy support structure for the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is vital to cut back dead and decaying parts of the plant so that the energy is used towards healthy growth. Also, pruning helps keep the size in check, which is crucial if you locate Rhaphidophora indoors. Ensure that the pruning tools are sharp and sterile!
Fertilizing
Application of well-balanced fertilizer diluted half to its strength works well for Mini Monstera Plant. As the roots are sensitive, it’s susceptible to burnt roots so make sure to use a good quality fertilizer containing harsh chemicals. The ideal time to fertilize is in the springs and summers every 15-20 days as the plant is in a growing phase during this period. Adding aged compost or fish emulsion is an organic way to boost plant growth.
Pests & Diseases
Common garden pests such as aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, and scales can cause damage to the foliage, among which spider mites are the most common culprit. To get rid of such pets, spray neem oil solution over the foliage or use insecticidal soap solution. Root rot can occur due to overwatering, so keep watering in check!
Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma Toxicity
Keep it out of the reach of children and pets, including cats and dogs, as it’s toxic to them. It belongs to the Araceae family, and just like other family members, such as Monstera deliciosa, it’s also toxic. Calcium oxalates crystals present in the sap, and that’s what makes the plant toxic. Contact a vet if you suspect your pet has chewed upon Mini Monstera Plant and shows signs of discomfort.