In the world of indoor gardening, the Monstera is a superstar!
But here’s a question not often considered: can this tropical marvel be grown outdoors, in your garden?
Some of our articles may include affiliate links which means we get a small commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
The answer, you’ll be thrilled to know, is a resounding “Yes!” – but with a few caveats.
The Monstera is a tropical plant native to the rainforests of Central and South America. It thrives in warm, humid conditions, and it’s not frost-tolerant.
So while it can indeed be grown outdoors, it’s only suitable for certain climates.
Let’s dive in and discover which states offer the best homes for this jungle giant!
Ideal Climate for Monstera Plants
Monstera plants are beautiful and trendy, known for their distinctive foliage and tropical charm.
To successfully grow Monstera in your garden, it’s essential to keep some critical factors in mind: temperature and humidity preferences.
Temperature Requirements
Monstera plants prefer warm climates, typically thriving in temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C).
Extreme low or high temperatures may cause damage, so avoid exposure to frost or temperatures below 60°F (16°C) and extreme heat above 90°F (32°C).
These plants are native to Mexico, Panama, and other tropical regions, so they’ll naturally thrive in states with similar climates, such as Florida, California, and Hawaii.
If you’re living in a cooler region, consider growing your Monstera indoors or providing protection from the cold by using a greenhouse or frost cloth during colder months.
Humidity Preferences
Monstera plants love high humidity levels, which replicate their natural tropical habitat. Aim for a humidity level of at least 60%.
In states with humid climates, like Florida and Louisiana, these conditions are easy to achieve outdoors.
For those living in drier climates, you can still grow Monstera by increasing the humidity around your plant.
Here are a few tips to maintain adequate humidity levels:
- Mist the leaves with water regularly, especially during dry seasons
- Place a shallow tray filled with water and pebbles under the plant
- Consider using a humidifier to maintain the desired humidity levels
Read here for more information on Monstera’s humidity requirements: 5 Key Ways Humidity Boosts Your Monstera’s Health
States Suitable for Monstera Gardening
In the United States, Monstera can be successfully grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11.
USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10 and 11 are the warmest regions in the contiguous United States, and these include parts of the following states:
- California: Southern parts, including cities such as Los Angeles and San Diego, are in zones 10 and 11.
- Arizona: The lower regions, especially along the border with Mexico, can reach into zone 10.
- Texas: The southernmost tip of Texas, including cities such as Brownsville, are in zone 10.
- Louisiana: A small southern part of the state, near the Gulf of Mexico, falls within zone 10.
- Florida: Much of the southern half of Florida, including cities like Miami and Key West, are in zones 10 and 11.
In addition to these, the U.S. also has territories and islands in the Pacific and the Caribbean that are in zones 10 and 11, such as:
- Hawaii: All of the Hawaiian islands are in zones 10 and 11.
- Puerto Rico: The entire territory is in zones 10 and 11.
- Guam: This island is in zone 11.
- U.S. Virgin Islands: These islands are in zones 11.
- American Samoa: This island is in zone 11.
You can therefore grow Monstera outside in six US states in total: California, Arizona, Texas, Louisiana, Florida, and Hawaii!
Let’s take a close look at some of these states.
Florida
With its balmy year-round temperatures and high humidity, the Sunshine State is the perfect setting for a Monstera.
Miami, in particular, with its subtropical climate, is a haven for these plants.
They can easily be grown in shaded areas of your garden where they will enjoy the heat without getting scorched by the intense sun.
Texas
Monstera can also do well in parts of Texas, particularly in the Houston area.
Here, the warm, humid climate is similar to the plant’s native rainforest habitat.
It’s important, however, to protect these plants from the full Texan sun, as it can be a bit too much for their liking.
Western States Offering Optimal Climates
On the West Coast, states like California and Arizona also provide suitable conditions for Monstera gardening. At least, in some parts of the state.
The warm climate and relatively moderate humidity levels can support Monstera growth, relying on proper care and protection from harsh weather events.
To grow Monstera in these regions, ensure your plants receive adequate water and are not exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations.
Also, consider using a stake or pole to support the climbing vine as it grows, giving your Monstera the structure it needs to flourish.
California
Southern California is another great place to plant Monstera in your garden.
The coastal areas are hospitable to this plant with their mild winters and warm summers.
In fact, Monstera is even included in the University of California’s list of ‘non-invasive plants’, meaning it won’t pose a threat to local ecosystems.
Arizona
Arizona, particularly Phoenix, has an average high-temperature range from 66 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit and an average low-temperature range from 45 to 83 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year.
This falls within the temperature range that Monstera plants can tolerate, making Arizona suitable for growing these plants outdoors
Hawaii
It probably comes as no surprise that Hawaii, with its lush tropical climate, is a great place for growing Monstera.
In fact, the plant is so successful here that it grows wild in some areas!
Considering Greenhouse Cultivation in Other States
If you live in a state that does not have the ideal climate for Monstera gardening, don’t worry!
You still have the option to grow Monstera plants indoors or in a greenhouse.
Greenhouses can help create the optimal growing environment by controlling temperature, humidity, and light conditions.
In a controlled environment, ensure your Monstera receives the proper care, such as indirect sunlight, a well-draining soil, and consistent watering.
Doing so lets you enjoy the tropical beauty of Monstera plants in your greenhouse, even if you don’t live in a region with a naturally suitable climate.
Can You Plant Monstera Outdoor in Full Sun?
While Monstera is a tropical plant, it is an understory plant in its native habitat, meaning that it grows beneath the canopy of other trees and plants.
Therefore, it prefers indirect or dappled sunlight, rather than full sun.
When planting your Monstera outdoors, choose a spot that receives filtered sunlight or provide some shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Avoid areas with intense direct sunlight, as this can cause the leaves to scorch or turn yellow.
Read here for more details on Monstera light requirements: Monstera Lighting Guide: The Secret to Unleashing Lush Greenery
Can Monstera Live Outside in Winter?
Monstera is sensitive to cold temperatures and is not frost-tolerant, so it is not suitable for outdoor planting in areas with cold winter temperatures.
If you live in a region with chilly winters, it is best to grow your Monstera indoors, where it can thrive as a houseplant.
However, if you have a potted Monstera that you want to enjoy outdoors during the warmer months, you can move it outside when temperatures are consistently above 50°F (10°C) and bring it back indoors when the weather cools down.
Just remember to gradually acclimate your plant to higher light levels to prevent sunburn.
You Can Grow Monsteras Anywhere!
This doesn’t mean that if you live outside of these states, you can’t enjoy the beauty of the Monstera.
These plants make excellent houseplants and can thrive indoors with the right care, which includes regular watering, a humid environment, and indirect light.
Whether you’re in a state where the Monstera can grow outdoors or you’re planning to keep it inside, this plant is sure to bring a touch of the tropics into your life.
So why not take a chance on this jungle beauty and start your Monstera journey today?
Happy planting!
Check out these Monstera growing guides:
Monstera Pruning Guide: Easy Steps for Lush Growth
Monstera Troubleshooting Guide: Quick Fixes For 7 Common Issues
