How to Prevent Monstera Deliciosa from Overgrowing
Monstera Deliciosa, with its unique leaf shape, has become a new favorite indoor green plant. However, during maintenance, it is prone to problems such as stem elongation and loose plant shape. This article will systematically analyze five key maintenance points and the use of growth regulators, helping you create a compact and full Monstera Deliciosa shape.
Monstera Deliciosa Preventive Maintenance Guide
Accurate Control of Light Intensity
It is recommended to provide 4-6 hours of bright scattered light daily. This can be judged by the orientation of the leaves: evenly spread leaves indicate sufficient light, and new leaves tilting towards the light require adjustment. Use a shade cloth with 40% light blocking in summer, and direct sunlight can be accepted in winter.
Three Principles of Scientific Watering
Use the 'Check the Surface Soil - Weigh the Potting Soil - Inspect the Aerial Roots' method: water when the top 3 cm of soil is dry, add water when the potting soil weight is reduced by 1/3, and water immediately when the aerial roots become shriveled. It is recommended to use clay pots, which increase breathability by 30% compared to plastic pots.
Step-by-Step Pruning Strategy
Keep 3-4 functional leaves during the seedling stage, and cut off 1 node for every 3 nodes grown during the growing stage. Pruning tools need to be disinfected with 75% alcohol, and the cut surface should be coated with wood ash. After pruning, control water for 3 days and combine with phosphorus-potassium fertilizer to promote the germination of lateral buds.
Golden Rule of Nutrient Ratio
Fertilize according to the N-P-K ratio of 5-10-10, and apply diluted water-soluble fertilizer 1000 times during the growing season. You can bury bone meal to supplement calcium and use banana peel compost to supplement potassium, effectively inhibiting internode elongation.
Complete Analysis of Growth Regulator Application
Medication Use Scenarios
When physical control is ineffective, you can choose a growth regulator containing CCC. It is suitable for mature plants over 80 cm tall, and is prohibited for seedlings and weak plants. It is recommended to apply in the morning during spring and autumn.
Accurate Concentration Control
Dilute at a ratio of 1:1500 and use a syringe to measure the amount for root irrigation. It is recommended to reduce to 1:2000 for the first use to test tolerance. Apply every 15 days, not exceeding 3 times consecutively.
Through the four-dimensional maintenance system of light control, water management, pruning shaping, and nutritional balance, combined with scientific intervention of growth regulators, the plant shape of Monstera Deliciosa can be effectively controlled. It is recommended to prioritize physical control, and medication use must strictly follow the instructions, regularly observe the plant's response, to achieve healthy shaping.