As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can provide you with some insights on whether Monsteras can be placed outside in direct sunlight. Monsteras, also known as Swiss cheese plants, are native to tropical rainforests where they grow under the shade of larger trees. Therefore, they are accustomed to indirect sunlight and can be sensitive to too much direct sun exposure.
While Monsteras can tolerate some amount of direct sunlight, it is generally recommended to keep them in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can be too intense and harsh for the delicate leaves of Monsteras, leading to yellowing or scorched leaves. If you notice your Monstera’s leaves reaching for sunlight or showing signs of damage, it’s a clear indication that it is receiving too much direct sunlight.
To avoid this issue, it is advisable to place your Monstera in an area with bright, indirect light. This could be near a window with a sheer curtain or in a room with plenty of ambient light. If you do choose to place your Monstera outside, it’s important to provide some shade either from nearby trees or by using a shade cloth to filter the direct sunlight.
Additionally, it is crucial to monitor the soil moisture of your Monstera when it is placed outside. The intense heat from direct sunlight can cause the soil to dry out more quickly, so you may need to water your plant more frequently. It is recommended to check the top few inches of soil and water when it feels dry. However, it’s important not to overwater your Monstera as well, as this can lead to root rot.
In my personal experience, I have found that Monsteras thrive best in bright, indirect light indoors. I have had instances where I placed my Monstera outside in direct sunlight, thinking it would benefit from the natural light. However, I noticed that the leaves started to turn yellow and brown, indicating sunburn. Since then, I have made sure to keep my Monstera in a well-lit spot indoors, away from direct sunlight, and it has been flourishing.
While Monsteras can tolerate some direct sunlight, it is generally recommended to keep them in bright, indirect light to prevent yellowing or scorched leaves. If you choose to place your Monstera outside in direct sunlight, ensure it is provided with some shade and monitor soil moisture to prevent drying out. Monsteras are best suited for indoor environments where they can thrive under the right lighting conditions.
