Monstera plants are eye-catching tropical houseplants that bring a jungle feel to your home. However, they need the right temperature and humidity levels to thrive. These levels can be affected by things like heaters or radiators. In this article, we’ll find out if you can grow Monstera plants near heaters or radiators.
What Conditions Do Monstera Plants Need?
Monstera plants hail from the tropical jungles and rainforests of Central and South America. In their native habitats, Monstera plants grow in warm, humid conditions. Monstera plants regularly experience temperatures between 70 and 85ºF (21 to 30ºC) and humidity levels between 75 and 90%.
However, some types of Monstera plants can survive in colder regions with lower humidity levels, like cloud forests. These Monstera species thrive in humidity levels between 40 and 50% and can tolerate temperatures down to 55ºF (13º).
Although it’s difficult to replicate these conditions exactly indoors, Monstera houseplants still need warm, humid conditions. Aim for ambient temperatures between 68 and 86ºF (20 to 30ºC) and humidity levels between 60 and 80%.
You can boost the humidity around your Monstera plant using humidifiers or pebble trays. Misting only provides a temporary boost to humidity, so use other methods as well. You could also position your Monstera plant in a humid, steamy bathroom.
Can Monstera Plants Grow Near Heaters or Radiators?
Growing Monstera plants near heaters or radiators can harm your plant. Although heaters can increase the temperature around your Monstera, these devices also cause drafts. These drafts can severely lower the ambient humidity, which dries out your Monstera plant (and also impacts fenestration).
Monstera plants that are exposed to incorrect temperatures or humidity levels can develop yellow leaves with brown edges. Your Monstera plant may also suffer from drooping leaves. Low humidity levels may also cause brown spots to start appearing on your Monstera plant’s leaves.
It’s even more essential to keep Monstera plants away from heaters or radiators during the winter. In many regions, the air is drier in winter than in summer. This means that you have to be extra mindful of humidity levels around your Monstera plant.
Dealing with Dry Air Conditions in the Home or Office
If the humidity around your Monstera plant is too low, underwatering could become a problem. Monstera plants usually need watering whenever the top 2 inches of soil feel dry. In drier conditions, Monstera plants can dry out faster than expected. If you can’t increase the humidity around your plant, make sure to water it more frequently.
Always keep your Monstera plant away from heaters or radiators, especially during the winter. This protects your plant from the dry drafts created by these appliances. With due care and attention, your Monstera plants will thrive for years to come.
Wrapping Up
Monstera plants should not be grown near heaters or radiators, especially during the winter months. Most Monstera plants need high humidity levels between 60 and 80%. Heaters and radiators create dry drafts that can severely lower the humidity around your Monstera. This can cause several problems, such as drooping or yellowing leaves with brown spots.
For more, see our in-depth guide to the uses and benefits of Monstera plants.
Andrew is the Editorial Director at Petal Republic. He holds a BSc degree in Plant Sciences and has trained professionally at leading floristry schools in London and Paris. In amongst overseeing a global editorial team, Andrew's a passionate content creator around all things flowers, floral design, gardening, and houseplants.
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