How Much Light Does a Monstera Borsigiana Need?

Picture this: You're in your living room, and there it is—your Monstera Borsigiana, with its eye-catching splits and lush green leaves. But wait, why does it look a bit sad? Could it be the lighting? Light is a crucial factor when it comes to keeping your plant happy and thriving.

In this article, we'll chat about just how much light your Monstera Borsigiana needs. We'll cover everything from the best spots in your home, signs your plant might be getting too much or too little light, and some handy tips to ensure your Monstera is living its best life.

Understanding Monstera Borsigiana's Natural Habitat

Let's start with where your Monstera Borsigiana comes from. Knowing its natural habitat can give us a good clue about what it needs at home. These plants hail from the tropical forests of Central America, where they grow under the canopy of taller trees. This means they're used to dappled sunlight rather than direct exposure.

In these forests, the light is scattered, which is ideal for their growth. The leaves have those famous splits or fenestrations to optimize light capture while minimizing damage from harsh rays. So, when we're thinking about where to place them in our homes, we have to mimic these conditions as closely as possible. Think bright, indirect light rather than a sunbath under direct rays.

It's kind of like us humans wearing sunglasses on a sunny day. We love the sun, but too much direct light can be overwhelming. Similarly, your Monstera will thrive with plenty of light, but not the kind that'll turn its lovely leaves crispy.

Spotting the Perfect Place in Your Home

Finding the right spot in your home for your Monstera Borsigiana is half the battle. Consider areas that provide bright, indirect light. This could be near a window that's shaded by a sheer curtain, or even a few feet away from a window that doesn't get harsh afternoon sun.

A north or east-facing window is often ideal. These windows provide ample light but tend to avoid the intense afternoon sun that can scorch your plant's leaves. If you're like me and your house has windows in all the wrong places, a south or west-facing window can still work. Just make sure there's some kind of filter—like a curtain—or position the plant a bit further from the window.

Remember, your Monstera is a bit like Goldilocks—it doesn't want too much or too little light, but just the right amount. You might need to experiment a bit. Try a few different spots and see where it seems happiest. It's a bit like a game of musical chairs, but with plants!

Signs of Too Much Light

Now, let's say you've plopped your Monstera in a spot that might be a tad too sunny. What should you be looking out for? Well, when a Monstera gets too much light, it will start to show signs of distress. The first hint is usually browning or crispy edges on the leaves. This is a clear signal that the light is too intense.

Another sign is that the leaves might start to lose their vibrant green color. They might even start to curl or droop, which is your Monstera's way of saying, "Hey, a little less light, please!" If you notice these signs, it's time to move your plant to a less intense spot.

It's all about keeping an eye on your plant and listening to what it's telling you. Plants can't talk, but they sure have their ways of communicating. Adjusting its position can make all the difference.

Identifying Insufficient Light

On the flip side, not enough light can also be a problem. If your Monstera isn't getting enough light, you'll notice it stretching out, reaching for the sun. This is known as etiolation, and it's your plant's attempt to find more light.

The leaves might also become smaller and lose their characteristic splits. Without enough light, your Monstera might look a bit leggy, with more stem between the leaves than you'd like. If you spot these signs, it's time to move your plant to a brighter location.

Think of it like this: If you were to live in a dimly lit room all the time, you'd feel pretty sluggish too. Your Monstera needs enough light to thrive and show off its beautiful foliage, so don't be afraid to move it around until you find the sweet spot.

Using Artificial Light

Not everyone has the perfect natural light in their home, and that's okay. Enter artificial lighting, a great way to ensure your Monstera gets the light it needs. Grow lights are a fantastic option, especially during those gloomy winter months when natural light is scarce.

Look for full-spectrum LED grow lights, as these mimic the natural sunlight your plant craves. Position the light about 12 to 18 inches above your Monstera, and aim for about 12 hours of light per day. You can even get a timer to make things easier. It's like giving your plant a little sun vacation every day!

Don't worry, using artificial light doesn't mean you're cheating. It's just a clever way to ensure your plant gets consistent light when Mother Nature doesn't cooperate. Plus, it can be a lifesaver if you live in a basement apartment or have limited window space.

Seasonal Changes and Light Needs

Just like us, plants have to deal with the changing seasons. During the summer, your Monstera might need a little more protection from the sun, especially if you're in a spot that gets intense sunlight. Consider moving it a few feet back from the window or adjusting the curtains to diffuse the light.

In winter, the days are shorter and the light is weaker. This is when your Monstera might need a little extra help from artificial lighting. You may also notice it's growing more slowly during these months, which is completely normal. Your plant is just conserving energy until the sunnier days return.

Think of it like adjusting your wardrobe with the seasons. Your Monstera might need a bit of moving around to stay comfortable and happy all year long. It's all about tuning into the plant's natural rhythms and helping it adapt to the changing environment.

Balancing Light with Other Factors

Light is important, but it's not the only thing your Monstera needs to thrive. Don't forget about watering, humidity, and temperature. These factors are all interconnected, and getting them right can make a world of difference for your plant.

For instance, a Monstera in a bright spot might need more frequent watering than one in a shadier area. More light means more photosynthesis, which can increase water usage. Conversely, if you've got a plant in a dim spot, overwatering can become a risk, as the plant might not use water as quickly.

Humidity is another biggie. Monsteras love it, so consider a humidifier if your home's air is on the dry side. Think of it as creating a little tropical vacation for your plant. After all, who doesn't love a good spa day?

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best plant parents can make mistakes. One common hiccup is overcorrecting when you spot a problem. If your Monstera's leaves start to brown, it's tempting to move it to a shady spot, but too drastic a change can stress the plant.

Another pitfall is thinking that more light is always better. Remember, direct sunlight can be too much for your Monstera. It's all about finding the balance. Also, be cautious with grow lights—too much artificial light can cause similar problems as natural light.

Lastly, don't forget to clean your plant's leaves. Dust can accumulate, blocking light from reaching the leaves. A gentle wipe with a damp cloth every now and then can work wonders.

Final Thoughts

Getting the light just right for your Monstera Borsigiana can seem like a challenge, but it's all about balance. By paying attention to its natural habitat, experimenting with different spots in your home, and considering the seasons, you can ensure your plant gets the light it needs to thrive.

At Cafe Planta, we love helping plant people care for their green companions. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned plant parent, feel free to email us or reach out via Instagram. We're here to help you cultivate a beautiful and thriving indoor jungle.