HydroCare plants are planted in hydrogranules instead of using soil.
Hydrogranules are manufactured from clay pellets that are baked at high temperatures to make them expand, a process a bit like making popcorn.
The open structure of the hydrogranules allows water and nutrients to be stored and released, creating the optimum conditions for indoor plants to thrive as well as simplifying maintenance requirements.
HydroCare plants have a lot of benefits over soil plants:
Moisture Levels: The open structure of the hydrogranules creates optimum moisture levels around the roots of the plant. Water stored in hydrogranules below the roots will be gently drawn up through capillary action for the roots to absorb. No more dried out roots or root rot.
Watering: A water meter on the side of the grow pot indicates the amount of water left in the hydrogranule reservoir below the roots. When it reaches the minimum level wait for 1-2 weeks then simply top it back up to the optimum level. The plant will pull water from the hydrogranules according to its needs so there is no risk of over or under watering and watering is less frequent.
Root Health: The open structure of our pH neutral hydrogranules allows air to circulate around the roots keeping them healthy and because they do not compact over time there is no need to top up.
HydroCare plants are adapted to these conditions and develop a smaller more fleshy root system making the plant more hardy and in a smaller grow pot meaning you have a wider choice of decorative planter styles. The requirement to repot as the plant grows is also significantly reduced.
Pest Control: Hydrogranules are an inert medium that is less susceptible to pests, fungi and bacteria which means healthier plants with less risk of disease.
When you buy a HydroCare plant, you need a few other bits and pieces to assemble the plant in your chosen planter or plant pot. Think of getting a HydroCare plant as a solution that needs to be assembled rather than just a plant.
We have a simple step by step video guide to assembling the HydroCare plant in a plant pot but essentially you need 5 things for hydro heaven:
1. The HydroCare plant in its hydroculture grow pot.
2. A water meter to slot into the side of the hydroculture grow pot.
3. A waterproof plastic liner for your decorative pot. Each HydroCare plant has an associated hydro kit that includes a waterproof liner to fit the hydroculture grow pot of the plant and a size tip to help you choose a decorative pot that will accommodate the specified waterproof pot liner for the plant.
4. Extra hydrogranules to fill around the grow pot and make a nice finish on top.
5. Hydroculture plant food, specifically formulated for use with hydrogranules.
A cute name for a cute plant and so called due to the (vague?) resemblance of the leaves to that of a cheeky monkey.
A close relative of the Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa), the Philodendron Monkey Mask is often also referred to as Philodendron or Monstera Obliqua, however a true Obliqua is more hole than leaf and nowhere near as attractive as this little chap.
Monstera adansonii is easy to care for so long as it has warm conditions, making it ideal for adding to hydro trough planters and room dividers for some tumbling and trailing appeal.
The plant has a vining habit and often grows entwined in and around itself, with new leaves and vines sometimes growing through the holes in existing leaves. This can lead to leaves tearing which gives the plant a shabby chic look rather than pristine appeal.
HydroCare - Monstera adansonii - Philodendron Monkey Mask Care & Info Guide
Horty Hints
Growing old with grace! As your plant grows the lower leaves naturally turn yellow. Don’t panic, simply allow the plant to use them up, pulling them off when they have dried.
Caught in a trap! New leaves start off curled up but be sure these aren't trapped in any fully grown leaf holes, as they might rip as they open.
Wipe the leaves occasionally to remove accumulated dust. Leaves do tear and bruise easily, giving the plant a rugged, worn appearance rather than a pristine look.
Light
Monstera grow best in bright, indirect light, but are hardy enough to tolerate moderate shade. Avoid direct sunlight however, as this may burn or bleach the leaves.
Watering
Keep an eye on the water meter. Water when the meter has been on minimum for 7 to 10 days. Visit our HydroCare set up guide for more information.
Temperature
Monstera like warm conditions from 18-27°C. Lower temperatures will reduce the plant's growth rate. It will tolerate 12°C and above but avoid cold draughts.
Humidity
This plant will do best in average to high humidity levels. Cannot cope in dry air situations so mist occasionally for best results.
Feed
Add a Hydroculture liquid feed every 2 to 3 waterings during the spring and summer months.
Height & Growth Rate
Adansonii is a slow to moderate grower depending on conditions. Use a moss pole to support the plant or cut back if it gets too big.Please note: each plant is unique so available heights are approximate and the plant you receive may vary by ±10%.
Toxicity
The leaves of the Monkey Mask are poisonous so be sure to keep away from pets and children. Do not consume.
Origin
Monstera adansonii is native to Mexico and Central America.Please note: images show how this plant may look at various stages of maturity. The size you choose may look different.