Most types of Monstera are grown as houseplants, but you can also grow them outside. However, these plants will not suit all climates across the country. In this article, we’ll explain whether Monstera plants can survive outdoors and how to grow them.
Native Habitats of Monstera Plants
Members of the Monstera genus are native to tropical areas of Central and South America. Most Monstera plants are hemiepiphytes. This means that they have roots in the soil as well as aerial roots that climb other plants.
In their native rainforest habitats, Monstera plants grow on the forest floor in warm, humid conditions. Monstera plants usually receive dappled, indirect sunlight through the forest canopy. They thrive in temperatures between 70 and 85ºF (21 to 30ºC) and high humidity levels between 75 and 90%.
However, some types of Monstera can grow in cooler, drier conditions with humidity levels between 40 and 50%. Many of these species are native to cloud forest habitats.
Can Monstera Plants Survive Outdoors?
Yes, Monstera plants can survive outdoors in some regions of the United States. Monstera plants need warm, humid tropical conditions like those in USDA Zones 10 to 12. Monstera plants can grow outside in these areas throughout the year.
Although some Monstera species can tolerate cooler conditions, most varieties will die if exposed to temperatures below 50ºF. Therefore, Monstera plants are not suitable for growing outdoors in Zones that are exposed to frost and cold temperatures.
However, if summer nighttime temperatures don’t drop below 50ºF, you can grow Monstera plants outside in containers. That said, you’ll need to bring them indoors during the winter.
How to Grow Monstera Plants Outdoors?
To successfully grow Monstera plants outside, you need to replicate their natural environment. If you live in Zones 10 to 12, you can grow Monstera plants outdoors all year round.
If you don’t live in a tropical climate, you can still grow Monstera plants outside using containers or pots. This allows you to move your Monstera plants indoors if temperatures drop below 50ºF. You can also protect your plant from frosts and winter temperatures.
Outdoor Monstera plants require 5 to 6 hours of bright, indirect light during the day. Try positioning your Monstera in areas with an east or southeast aspect. This provides bright light during the morning when it’s less intense. Monstera plants can also grow in partial shade.
Monstera plants require moderate to high humidity levels, so they won’t survive in arid climates. Provide humidity levels between 60 and 80%. Monstera plants also need well-draining soils to stop them from becoming waterlogged.
Water outdoor Monstera plants whenever the top 2 inches of soil feel dry. This should equate to once every 1 to 2 weeks unless conditions are drier or hotter than expected.
Wrapping Up
Monstera plants can survive all year round in Zones 10 to 12 outdoors. In other areas, Monstera plants can be grown outdoors in pots. Bring outdoor Monstera plants indoors if the temperature drops below 50ºF.
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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