If you’ve welcomed a Monstera into your indoor garden, you’re well-acquainted with the tropical charm that this striking, split-leaf beauty brings.
Now, you may be considering companion planting to create a lush, vibrant tableau in your living space. However, hold that thought!
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In the spirit of promoting plant peace in your indoor garden, we’ve rounded up four plants that, despite their own unique charms, may not play nice with your beloved Monstera.
4 Plants to Avoid Growing Near Monstera
Certain plants can actually stunt the growth and health of your Monstera by competing for resources, attracting pests, or even releasing harmful chemicals.
To ensure that your Monstera thrives and continues to enhance the beauty of your indoor garden, it’s essential to be mindful of the plants you choose to grow in close proximity.
Here are four plants that you may want to grow separately from Monsteras.
1. Ficus Benjamina
Commonly known as the weeping fig, Ficus Benjamina is a beloved indoor plant admired for its aesthetic appeal.
However, it’s not the most suitable companion for your Monstera.
Both plants prefer high humidity levels, but Ficus Benjamina requires a higher level of light than Monstera, which enjoys filtered, indirect light.
Furthermore, these plants’ root systems can compete for the same nutrients and space, negatively affecting your Monstera’s health and development.
It’s critical to understand these specific needs and characteristics before placing them close together.
2. English Ivy
English Ivy (Hedera helix) is another plant that you should avoid growing near your Monstera.
This fast-growing and invasive plant can potentially cause crowding issues and compete with your Monstera’s resources.
Their aggressive climbing nature could also entangle with your Monstera’s aerial roots, making it difficult for both plants to thrive.
3. Bergenia
Bergenia is a flowering perennial plant with large, sturdy leaves.
This plant prefers cooler temperatures and well-drained soil, which is different from the conditions required by Monstera plants.
Due to their contrasting requirements, growing Bergenia near your Monstera could lead to uneven growth and overall deterioration in the health of both plants.
4. Peppermint
Lastly, avoid growing peppermint (Mentha × piperita) near your Monstera. Peppermint is an aromatic herb with invasive tendencies.
Its shallow and fast-spreading root system could easily compete with your Monstera’s roots for nutrients and space, ultimately affecting your Monstera’s growth and health.
It’s wise to grow peppermint in a separate container or area away from your Monstera.
Factors to Consider When Planting Near Monstera
When planning your garden or indoor plant arrangement, there are some factors to consider when planting near your Monstera to ensure its best health.
In this section, we will discuss root competition, allelopathic effects, and pest attraction.
Root Competition
Monstera plants have extensive root systems, making it crucial for you to consider which plants to grow near them.
Some plants have aggressive root systems that may compete with Monsteras for nutrients, water, and space, leading to decreased growth and overall health.
Avoid planting plants with invasive roots close to your Monstera, to ensure it has adequate room to grow and thrive.
Allelopathic Effects
Certain plants can affect the growth and health of your Monstera through allelopathic effects.
Allelopathy is a phenomenon in which one plant produces chemicals that can have a positive or negative impact on the growth, survival, and reproduction of other plants.
Some plants may produce compounds that inhibit or slow the growth of neighboring plants, like your Monstera.
To ensure the best health for your Monstera, do some research and avoid planting allelopathic species nearby.
Instead, opt for plants that have no negative allelopathic effects or even those that promote growth and overall health.
Attracting Pests
Lastly, it’s essential to consider how the plants you grow near your Monstera can attract pests.
Some plants may host pests that can also infest your Monstera, causing damage and potentially leading to a decline in health.
When choosing plants to grow near your Monstera, avoid those prone to pest infestations or that are known to attract pests that can harm Monsteras.
Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Monstera Pests: Prevention and Treatment Hacks
Alternative Plant Companions for Monstera
Looking for the perfect plant companions for your Monstera?
Here are three great options to consider: Peace Lily, Pothos, and Snake Plant.
These plants not only look great together, but they also provide a healthy environment for each other.
Peace Lily
The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) is a popular choice for plant enthusiasts.
It’s a low-maintenance plant that’s perfect for Monstera companionship.
Its stunning white blooms add a touch of elegance to your indoor garden, while its air-purifying capabilities help create a healthier environment for your Monstera.
Benefits of Peace Lily:
- Air purifier
- Low-maintenance
- Elegant appearance
To care for your Peace Lily, simply:
- Water when the soil is slightly dry
- Provide indirect sunlight
- Maintain a humid environment
Pothos
Another excellent companion for your Monstera is the Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), also known as Devil’s Ivy.
This hardy plant is a natural air purifier and can adapt to various light conditions, making it an easy-to-care-for addition to your indoor garden.
Benefits of Pothos:
- Air purifier
- Adapts to various light conditions
- Easy to care for
Caring for your Pothos is simple:
- Water when the soil is dry
- Place in low, medium, or bright indirect light
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season
Snake Plant
Lastly, the Snake Plant (Sansevieria), also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is a striking and hardy companion for your Monstera.
Its vertical leaves provide a stunning contrast to the Monstera’s sprawling growth, and it’s also an excellent air purifier.
Benefits of Snake Plant:
- Air purifier
- Low-maintenance
- Complementary appearance
To care for your Snake Plant:
- Water sparingly, as overwatering can lead to root rot
- Provide bright, indirect light
- Maintain moderate humidity levels
By choosing one of these three plant companions for your Monstera, you’ll create a beautiful and healthy indoor garden that’s sure to impress.
Check out the full list here: 10 Companion Plants To Pair With Your Monstera For A Gorgeous Indoor Jungle
Choosing Your Monstera’s Plant Friends
It’s crucial to be mindful of nearby plants when cultivating a thriving Monstera.
By avoiding the following four plants, you’ll prevent potential harm to your Monstera and encourage optimal growth.
- Plants with allelopathic properties: As these plants release chemicals that inhibit the growth of nearby plants, steer clear of species like black walnut and sunflowers.
- Plants prone to pests: Aphids, spider mites, and other plant pests can quickly transfer from one plant to another. Avoid growing your Monstera near common pest-attracting plants like roses or fruit trees.
- Plants with invasive root systems: Fast-growing root systems from plants such as bamboo can compete with your Monstera for necessary nutrients and water, negatively impacting its health.
- Plants with high water demands: Species that require lots of water like willows can deplete the surrounding soil’s moisture, leaving your Monstera fighting for hydration.
By steering clear of these four types of plants and providing proper care, your Monstera will enjoy a healthy environment to thrive and grow.
This simple effort will not only protect your Monstera’s longevity, but also enhance the enjoyment and beauty it brings to your home or garden.
