How To Make Your Own DIY Monstera Obliqua Fertilizer At Home

You've probably heard the buzz about Monstera obliqua, one of the most sought-after houseplants around. Known for its delicate, Swiss cheese-like leaves, it’s a plant lover's dream. But keeping it happy and thriving can be a bit of a challenge, especially when it comes to feeding it the right nutrients. This is where making your own DIY fertilizer can be a real game-changer.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the process of creating your own Monstera obliqua fertilizer using ingredients you probably already have at home. We’ll cover why homemade fertilizer is beneficial, the key ingredients you’ll need, and step-by-step instructions on how to make it. So, let’s get started!

Why DIY Fertilizer?

Before we jump into the how-to, let's talk about why you might want to make your own fertilizer in the first place. The benefits are pretty compelling. For one, it's cost-effective. Store-bought fertilizers can be pricey, and sometimes, they contain ingredients that are not the best for your plant or the environment.

Homemade fertilizers allow you to control what goes into your plant’s diet. You can customize the nutrient content to match your Monstera obliqua's specific needs. Plus, it's an environmentally friendly option. You’re using natural ingredients and reducing waste by reusing materials that might otherwise end up in the trash. Not to mention, there’s something incredibly satisfying about nurturing your plant with something you crafted yourself.

Understanding Your Monstera Obliqua's Needs

Monstera obliqua isn't your average houseplant, and its care needs reflect that. It's a tropical plant, which means it craves a humid environment and nutrient-rich soil. When thinking about nutrients, focus on the big three: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (often abbreviated as NPK).

Nitrogen helps with leaf growth and the vibrant green color, phosphorus is key for root and flower development, and potassium strengthens the plant's overall health. Your DIY fertilizer should aim to provide a balanced mix of these nutrients. Keep this in mind as we discuss the ingredients you’ll need.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Now that you know why you're making your own fertilizer and what your plant needs, it's time to gather your ingredients. Don’t worry, you won’t need to raid a chemistry lab for this. Most of these items are likely in your kitchen or garden shed.

• Compost: A great source of organic matter and nutrients. If you don’t have a compost pile, a small bag from a garden center will do.
• Banana Peels: High in potassium, banana peels are excellent for strengthening your plant’s stems.
• Eggshells: A fantastic source of calcium, which helps in the development of your plant’s cell walls.
• Coffee Grounds: These are rich in nitrogen and help acidify the soil, which is beneficial for many houseplants.
• Fish Tank Water: If you have a fish tank, the water can be a great source of nitrogen and other nutrients. Just make sure it’s not too dirty!

Creating the Fertilizer

With your ingredients in hand, it’s time to mix them up into a nutrient-rich concoction for your Monstera obliqua. Here’s a simple recipe to follow:

1. Compost Tea: Fill a five-gallon bucket with water and add a shovel full of compost. Let it sit for a few days to brew. This will create a nutrient-rich liquid you can use to water your plants.
2. Banana Peel Spray: Chop banana peels and soak them in water for a few days. Strain the liquid into a spray bottle. Use this to mist your plant, giving it a potassium boost.
3. Eggshell Powder: Rinse and dry eggshells. Crush them into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle, or a blender. Sprinkle this around the base of your plant for added calcium.
4. Coffee Ground Mix: Mix used coffee grounds with water and pour it around the base of your plant. This will add nitrogen to the soil.

Applying the Fertilizer

Now that you’ve created your DIY fertilizer, it’s time to apply it. But how often should you do this? Over-fertilizing can be just as harmful as not fertilizing at all, so balance is key.

• Compost Tea: Use this every four to six weeks. Pour it around the base of the plant, avoiding the leaves.
• Banana Peel Spray: Apply this once a month. Lightly mist the leaves, making sure the plant is not in direct sunlight to avoid leaf burn.
• Eggshell Powder: Apply every two months. Gently work it into the top layer of soil.
• Coffee Grounds: Use sparingly, once every two months. Too much can make the soil too acidic.

Monitoring Your Plant

After applying your homemade fertilizer, keep an eye on your Monstera obliqua. Look for signs of nutrient deficiency or excess, such as yellowing leaves, which can indicate a lack of nitrogen, or brown leaf tips, a possible sign of too much potassium or phosphorus.

Adjust your fertilizer application as needed. If you notice any of these signs, it might be a good idea to ease off on the fertilizer or switch up your ingredients. Every plant is unique, and what works for one might not work for another.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While homemade fertilizers are generally safe, issues can still arise. One common problem is mold growth, especially if the compost tea or banana peel spray is left to sit for too long. If you notice mold, discard the batch and start fresh. Mold can be harmful to your plant.

Another issue might be attracting pests. Banana peels, in particular, can attract fruit flies. To avoid this, make sure to strain the banana peel water thoroughly and store it in a sealed container.

Other Tips for a Healthy Monstera Obliqua

Fertilizer is just one part of keeping your Monstera obliqua happy. Consider these additional tips to ensure your plant thrives:

• Light: Place your plant in bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct light can scorch the leaves.
• Water: Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
• Humidity: This plant loves humidity. Consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near the plant to increase moisture in the air.
• Pruning: Regularly trim any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth and keep the plant looking tidy.

Final Thoughts

Caring for a Monstera obliqua can be a rewarding experience, especially when you see it thrive with your homemade fertilizer. By understanding its unique needs and customizing your fertilizer, you're setting your plant up for success. Remember, the key is balance and paying attention to how your plant responds.

At Cafe Planta, we’re here to help you on your plant journey. Whether you’re looking for new plant friends or need advice, feel free to email us or send a DM on Instagram. We believe plants have the power to connect us with nature and each other. Let's create a thriving plant collection together!