Okay, so I’ve been growing this Monstera plant for a while now, and things were going pretty smoothly. It’s a tropical plant, you know, so I figured it likes warmth. But then winter came along, and I started wondering, “Just how cold can this thing handle?” I mean, I live in an area where it gets chilly, but not like, Arctic cold or anything.
So, I did what any responsible plant parent would do – I started experimenting. Not in a crazy, mad scientist kind of way, of course. Just a little trial and error. I started by moving my Monstera to different spots in my house. Near the window, it was cooler. Away from the window, warmer. I kept a close eye on the temperature using a regular thermometer, nothing fancy. And I watched my plant like a hawk, looking for any signs of distress.
First thing I did I took my monstera plant outside when the temperature was about 60F (15.5C). It seems like the plant did not care about the temperature. It was still growing at a normal speed. Then I put it outside for a whole night when the temperature was about 55F (12.8C). I saw no difference in the plant’s growing.
After some time the weather was getting colder and colder. I decided to try putting my monstera outside when the temperature was about 50F (10C). The plant did okay, but I noticed the leaves started to look a little sad, kind of droopy. When the temperature was about 45F (7.2C) the leaves were becoming yellow and some of them were even falling off.
I also noticed that when it got below 50F (10C), the plant’s growth just stopped. It was like it went into hibernation mode. No new leaves, no nothing. I brought it back inside when I saw that, and thankfully, it bounced back after a while.
My Experiment
-
Trial 1: Put monstera outside at 60F (15.5C), observed no significant changes in growth or appearance.
-
Trial 2: Put monstera outside overnight at 55F (12.8C), observed no significant changes in growth or appearance.
-
Trial 3: Put monstera outside at 50F (10C), observed leaves beginning to droop slightly.
-
Trial 4: Put monstera outside at 45F (7.2C), observed leaves turning yellow and some falling off, indicating distress.
So, what did I learn from this little experiment? Well, it seems like Monsteras are tougher than they look, but they definitely have their limits. They can handle a bit of a chill, but once it dips below 50F (10C), they’re not happy campers. It’s like they’re saying, “Okay, that’s it, I’m out.”
Now, I keep my Monstera in a cozy spot where it stays above 65F (18C) for most of the winter. And guess what? It’s thriving! Big, beautiful leaves, growing like crazy. It’s like a little piece of the tropics right here in my living room.
So, if you’re growing a Monstera, don’t freak out if it gets a little chilly. Just keep an eye on the temperature, and make sure it doesn’t drop below 50F (10C) for too long. And remember, every plant is different, so yours might be a little more or less sensitive to the cold. Just pay attention to what it’s telling you, and you’ll be fine.
Honestly, it’s all about finding that sweet spot. Not too hot, not too cold. Just like Goldilocks and the three bears, but with plants. And trust me, when you get it right, it’s so rewarding. Seeing your Monstera happy and healthy makes all the effort worthwhile.
Anyways, I am going to continue observing my monstera plant. I hope my experience could help you with growing your monstera!
