Monstera Thai Constellation is a treat for home gardeners. The attractive variegated leaves add interest to the unique foliage, which becomes more beautiful as the plant grows.
Each plant is unique because of its nature of variegation. Every plant will be different, and patterns will vary.
The Thai Constellation variety also likes well-draining soil and humid conditions to grow. It will need some supporting structure to grow as it matures. It allows its stems to climb up safely.
When the Monstera Thai Constellation gets enough humidity, it will allow the plants to grow aerial roots. The hanging roots look beautiful on a potted plant.
When it comes to its light needs, it likes an optimal lighting environment. However, never put the plant in complete sun, and never in front of a very bright sunny window. This can lead to sunburn on leaves.
If the foliage is getting too dark, it needs more light. If it gets enough light, it will produce two new leaves each week. In winter, it will slow down, don’t worry, it will catch up in spring.
It needs water in a balanced way. Never overwater and never let the soil completely dry out for a long period. Humidity is the key to the good health of Monstera Thai Constellation. Keep humidity higher than 80 percent for best results.
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What Is Monstera Thai Constellation?
Monstera Thai constellation is a lush houseplant. It has quickly found its place in the hearts of plant collectors, and connoisseurs and the reason for its popularity is its ability to thrive indoors.
Monstera Thai constellation is the result of careful selection and propagation of desired Monstera species tissue, originated in Thailand and native to the relatively muggy environs of southern Mexico and Panama.
Monstera has its uniquely marbled foliage that stands tall and reaches a height of up to 19.7 feet under ideal conditions.
It has quickly attained much popularity amongst indoor plant collectors.
Monstera Thai constellation is different from the variegated Monstera Deliciosa Borsigiana. The variegation of the marbled splashes of color is stable and unlikely to recede or reduce with time.
Monstera Thai constellation plant, in terms of its physical attributes, stands distinguishable. It is different because of its creamy and green variegation on foliage with holes that vary in diameter from 3 to 12 inches.
The striking marbling effect on the leaves, owing to the disproportionate distribution of chlorophyll scattered throughout the plant, enhances the market value of the plant. Hence, unsurprisingly, the more unique the pattern, the heftier the price tag attached to it.
If this seems like the plant you are going to add to your veritable collection of houseplants, then keep reading:
How To Care for Monstera Thai Constellation
Monstera Thai constellation growth rate requires more patience and love from its owner than the other members of this tropical plant family. It is also prone to wilting in the face of unusual drought.
Hence the frequency of growth of the plant, both in terms of height and new leaves or foliage, is heavily dependent on the quality of care it receives.
Taking a leaf from my diary [ pun intended], the plant draws on an immense well of patience from its owner, since for the first three to six months of its arrival in my life, it failed to produce any impressive results in terms of growth. However, given the proper environment, the results would be well worth it.
Now onto the conditions that make it thrive:
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Soil Requirements
Monstera Thai constellation flourishes in soil that is well hydrated as well as fully enriched with various nutrients. It is best to choose a peat-based soil mix that is just aerated enough. It will eliminate any chances of ruining the plant through overwatering during the winter season.
To maintain the correct level of hydration drainage should be assisted with a mixture of bark and perlite. Hydration is the key. Monstera Thai Constellation foliage is prone to shriveling and browning if the soil fails to provide the requisite moisture content.
The soil also needs to be maintained at slightly acidic to neutral pH levels between 5 to 7.5. So maintaining moist soil in summer and dry in winter is key to success.
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Light Requirements
A well-lit room with sufficient light is ideal for the Monstera Thai Constellation. But placing this plant in direct sunlight will harm its leaves. The plant’s growth is affected if it does not receive enough sunlight. Low conditions are not suitable since the yellow part of the leaves is unable to soak the sunlight. Otherwise, the plant requires more effort for photosynthesis.
The plant needs filtered sunlight which is done by diffusion of light. Textured glass windows or curtains are used in this process. You can also use indoor or artificial lights in case good lighting resources are not available. Early morning sunlight is beneficial for plant growth.
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Water Requirements
It is recommended to aerate the soil of Thai Constellation before watering. This way it releases moisture and lets the soil breathe. The above roots of plants can be damaged with overwatering. So make sure not to place the plant in soggy soil to avoid damaging its roots.
Root rot issue on these plants is common, and you might have to face this problem many times on Monstera Thai Constellations.
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Humidity Requirements
Try not to put the Monstera Thai Constellation close to windows as the plant dislikes a dry environment and growing conditions.
In unreasonably dry conditions, the plant may begin dropping leaves. As a tropical plant, Monstera Thai Constellation leans towards a moist climate. Indeed, high moistness brings about a quicker growth rate.
In the event that the indoor moistness is too low, the tip of the leaves will become brown and fresh. Increment the moistness by clouding the leaves all things considered. Keep the moistness at 60 percent or above for the best outcomes.
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Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the Thai Constellation plant is between 64 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The Monstera Thai Constellation doesn’t like frost.
Any temperature lower than 64 degrees Fahrenheit will slow down the development of the plant, while temperatures lower than 50 degrees Fahrenheit will ultimately stop the development.
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Fertilizer
A good fertilizer is important to give the plant all supplements essential for the leaf’s growth and encourage growth. Monstera Thai Constellation is a slow-growing plant and it grows fast during the spring and summer season.
To energize new development during the growing season, apply the fertilizer consistently. We would suggest slow-release plant food for the Thai Constellation. Apply the fertilizer away from the base of the plant.
You can apply the compost as a slow-release fertilizer too or use pellets and even a liquid feed. We would recommend fluid fertilizer as it will give you more control over the application. Do not fertilize plants in the winter months when they are resting.
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Pruning
The Monstera Thai Constellation requires less pruning, which makes it a low-maintenance indoor plant. Pruning is advised to control the size of the plant and to eliminate the dead or harmed foliage.
In the case that your Monstera plant has developed too large, you can prune the plant to manage growth. In case you want to avoid repotting the Monstera Thai Constellation plant you can prune it.
Pruning also helps in managing the infection. Remove infected parts of the plant to manage the health of your plants. Disinfect your cleaning instruments before you begin. You can do this by cleaning them with isopropyl liquid.
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Growth
Monstera Thai Constellation is a slow-growing indoor climbing plant. It takes about two years for a plant to mature. The growth of Monstera Thai Constellations depends on the growing conditions. Soil, humidity, water, nutrients, and temperature, all affect its growth.
Bright light, frequent watering, regular light fertilizer, and balanced humidity will keep the plant happy. The plant can grow up to two feet tall each year.
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Potting
The Thai Constellation needs to be repotted every two years. That is when it has used up all the soil nutrients or expanded its roots. A larger pot can be used. Use organic soil mix for best results. In case you do not want to use a bigger pot, you can separate the plants and create more pots.
How To Propagate Monstera Thai Constellation
Monstera Thai Constellation is easy to propagate but not all parts of the Thai Constellation can be propagated. Plants segments that can not grow on their own are:
- Leaves without stem
- Aerial roots without stem
- Stems without nodes
- Leaves alone
Using a good rooting hormone will assist in growing the roots of the plants and can help in fighting infections while propagating. Just like each leaf is unique, the new plants will be unique too. This habit of the Monstera Thai Constellation plant makes it an interesting plant to grow.
Monstera Thai Constellation variegated varieties are expensive and propagating them at home can save a lot of money. New plants can be gifted too and will be valued.
Monstera Thai Constellation is easily propagated by stem cuttings. All you need is:
- A pair of sterilized scissors
- Water
- Pot with soil mix
– Propagation By Stem Cuttings
- Use a sterilized pair of pruning shears and cut a segment of the stem while leaving at least one node and leaf
- Include aerial roots in the section for fast growth
- Leaving the leaves will improve the growth rate while nodes will grow new aerial roots
- It is important to be mindful of the timing of pruning the stem
- Never propagate in winters. The best time to do this is in spring or summer when the plant is growing rapidly
- Next, choose a perfect potting mixture of growing medium for your plants
- You can put the cutting in water and wait till it produces the roots
- Alternatively, directly plant the cutting in soil
- Rainwater is also very suitable for the water propagation method
- Gardeners suggest adding seaweed while doing to increase nutrients for the young cutting
- The cuttings should be placed in warm and bright locations for a fast growth rate
- Water must be changed regularly or at least once a week
- It will take up to six weeks for the new plants to grow shoots and roots
- You can then transplant them to the soil
– Propagating by Separation
Monstera Thai Constellation can grow into a dense plant. It is a good idea to multiply and divide the plant through the separation method. It also helps in keeping the plant into a manageable size besides giving your free plants.
Here is a step-to-step guide that you can follow:
- Water the plant and allow the soil to dry before you being
- Carefully transfer the plant from the pot into an open space
- Use a knife or scissors to make a cut through the soil. Gently divide the roots making two or more new plants
- Do this without cutting any stems and leaves
- Choose a pot that is a few inches bigger than the root ball of each new plant
- Carefully plant the cuttings into a clean pot with rich soil
- Place the young plants in a bright spot
- Water the plants regularly but do not overwater
– Propagation by Air Layering
Monstera Thai Constellation can be propagated through the air layering method as well. The aerial roots make it perfect for the plants to easily adapt to a new pot. Here is how to do it:
- Choose a healthy stem for cutting
- Make a small cut or wound at the node with a sterilized knife or shears
- Hold some moss in your hand and wrap it around the cut, sealing it. Damp sphagnum moss helps in sticking. Use a plastic wrap to hold it in place, and quickly tie a string around it
- After a couple of weeks, the plastic can be removed
- Make a cut and separate the cutting
- Now you can plant it in soil and is taking care of it as an individual plant
Monstera Thai Constellation Problems
Similar to all houseplants, the Monstera Thai Constellation is also prone to pests, infections, and diseases. The best preventive measure is to inspect your plants frequently. Take out time weekly to look at your plant. Turn leaves and see if there are any pests or unusual activity.
Changing colors of foliage may also indicate problems. Sometimes early detection can save us from big problems and plant loss. At the first sight of disease or infection, you must isolate your plants and bring them into quarantine.
Following are some common pests and diseases that attack the Monstera Thai Constellation. We are also sharing preventive treatments to assist you. We hope the guide helps you in growing your plants easily.
– Root Rot
The first sign of root rot in Monstera Thai Constellation is yellowing and wilting of stems and foliage. Root rot happens when there is excess water in the soil and there is poor drainage.
Overwatering can damage healthy plants very fast. The soil must drain water fast and keep it breathable. Lack of oxygen can affect plant growth and lead to root rot. Root rot also weakens the roots and if the problem is not treated the plant may die.
The only way to save a plant in the worst cases is to take cuttings and to grow it as a new plant. Sometimes the roots also get a fungal infection that destroys the root system.
At the first sight of yellowing leaves, save your plant. Do this by changing the soil, making sure the pot has good drainage, and also correcting the frequency of watering Monstera Thai Constellation.
– Mealybugs Attack
Monstera Thai Constellation can be infected with mushy, white mealybugs. This pest is only interested in the juicy sap and will be found on the leaves and stem of the plant. The mealybugs love to be at the joints of leaves of vines where they will find most sap.
When you see Monstera Thai Constellation infected with mealybugs, it will have the following symptoms:
- Leaves will be deformed
- Leaves will turn yellow
- Leaves may also drop
- Growth will be stunned
Immediately, isolate the plant and with a strong blow of water, wash away the bugs. If the problem is too severe then you can use rubbing alcohol to get rid of the pests.
Alternatively, the plant can be sprayed with insecticidal soap. It will protect the plant from mealybugs in the future if applied regularly. Neem oil can be used too to keep pests away.
– Spider Mites Attack
Monstera Thai Constellation can be affected by spider mites attacks too. It can turn into a serious problem if left untreated. The pest itself is hard to detect but its white web can confirm that it is affecting plant growth.
Sometimes it looks like a dusty web or blotches and patterns on the leaves. Spider mites attack is a sign that the growing conditions are dry and hot. Provide Monstera Thai Constellation with good humidity. It will encourage a healthy environment and to prevent spider mites and pest attacks.
– Thrips Invasion
Monstera Thai Constellation is also prone to infestation of tiny white insects called thrips. They also like to feast on the sweet sap of the plants. Thrips may cause dehydrated stems, discolored leaves, and brown foliage.
At the beginning of the invasion, when just a few leaves are infected, you can prune them. Severe infections are treated with neem oil spray. If it is easy for you to move your plants, then it is best to isolate them until the problem is solved.
– Salt Buildup
Another problem of Monstera Thai Constellation is salt buildup. It causes the yellowing of leaves and scorched tips of the leaves.
Salt begins to build up in the soil when there is overwatering. To prevent this once a month you can flush the soil with water to remove excess salt in soil. Small pots can fit in the sink. Open the tap and let the water run slowly for a while.
Large outs can be taken outdoors to do the same. Good drainage and controlled watering can help avoid this problem in the Monstera Thai Constellation.
– Scales Attack
Another sap-sucking pest is a scale that is sometimes hard to identify but is quite annoying to get rid of. If the plant is massively packed with scales, you may see yellow leaves and untimely wilting of leaves.
Scales also leave behind a clear, gluey substance known as honeydew on the leaves. Remove the branches and immediately throw them away. Rubbing alcohol, natural soap, or neem oil can be sprayed on the affected foliage.
Tips and Tricks To Grow Monstera Thai Constellation
- Monstera Thai Constellation can grow quite tall when it matures
- It will need a sturdy backing such as moss poles to promote its aerial roots
- If the ends of the leaves begin to turn brown, trim the brown part and do not remove the whole leaf
- Keeping your leaves clean will be very important. You can dust them and wash them to promote the photosynthesis process
- You can use neem oil for regular cleaning of Monstera Thai Constellation leaves to prevent pest attacks
- Monstera Thai Constellation has an extensive root system that is why they like deep containers to grow and expand their roots
Frequently Asked Questions About Monstera Thai Constellation
– The leaves on my Monstera Thai Constellation plant are turning brown. What should I do?
The leaves of the Monstera Thai Constellation may turn brown for two reasons. The plant is either getting too little light or there is excess salt in the soil. Improve its lighting by moving your Thai Constellation plant to another location.
This Monstera variety is sensitive to excess salt. Wash away the excess salt in the soil by running a tap over the soil surface.
– Why is the Monstera Thai Constellation plant turning yellow?
Monstera Thai Constellation turns yellow when it is overwatered. See if the pot has enough drainage holes and if the soil is well draining. If there are many yellow leaves you might want to take out the plant and check its roots.
Root rot will cause mushy roots and in worst cases, you might have to take cuttings of the plant to save it. Another reason could be that the plants are becoming root-bound. It is time to change your pot if you have not done that in a long time.
– Can I keep pets around the Monstera Thai Constellation?
Monstera Thai Constellation is a poisonous plant and is not safe to be kept around children and pets. Indigestion of Monstera Thai Constellation can cause inflammation, burning, or vomiting in pets
Conclusion
Monstera Thai Constellation is a striking engineered variety of Monstera. It is grown for its variegated leaves and interesting-looking foliage. The variegated nature of the plant makes each plant unique. That’s why growing it as an indoor plant is a treat.
Our guide above provides all the tips and tricks for growing your Monstera Thai Constellation. It also highlights propagation techniques as well as common problems you may encounter and how to handle them. Here is a summary of what we have discussed about Monstera Thai Constellation care.
- Monstera Thai Constellation is a variegated variety from Panama and Mexico
- It likes humidity of above 80 percent and also loves to grow in moist soil that is not overwatered
- Overwatering encourage root rot and may increase infection in the soil
- If not prevented or rescued, the infected roots can kill the plant
- If the Monstera Thai Constellation gets enough humidity, it can grow aerial roots. The roots look beautiful
- Monstera Thai Constellation needs a moss pole to grow. The pole helps its leaves to grow bigger and stems stronger
- Some pests attack the Monstera Thai Constellation plants
- Mealybugs, thrips, and spider mites attack the plants
- Keeping plants pest-free is possible with regular inspections. Applying neem oil while cleaning the Thai Constellation leaves can also help
- Salt buildup in the soil also causes yellowing of the leaves along with sluggish stems. The problem can be treated by not overwatering the plants
- The Monstera Thai Constellation leaves should also be dusted regularly. It encourages the good health of the plants
- Leaves of Monstera Thai Constellation turn dark when they get low light
- Stems that grow up to 19.7 feet in height may begin to look weak when the soil is overwatered
- Repot Monstera Thai Constellation after every two years and be careful in doing it
- Stem cutting propagation can be easily done. It helps to multiply the Monstera Thai Constellation plants
- Monstera Thai Constellation also propagates well through air layering methods
- Monstera Thai Constellation likes soil that has a pH of 5 to 7.5
- A slow-release fertilizer is better for the plants
- The plants can be fed diluted balanced fertilizer every month during the growing season
- If the care is provided Monstera Thai Constellation will grow two leaves each week
- In winter, the plant does not grow much
Monstera Thai Constellation is a fairly easy plant to grow, provided you create the right environment for it to thrive. We hope that the guide above assisted you in understanding the needs of the plant and that it gave you the confidence to grow your Monstera Thai Constellation fearlessly.
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