Best Fertilizer for Swiss Cheese Plant: How to Feed Monstera for Healthy Indoor Growth

The Swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) is a beloved indoor foliage plant known for its iconic split leaves and tropical appearance. While often mistaken for slow-growing, this Monstera thrives under the right indoor conditions—with light, humidity, and feeding being key.

Native to Central America, the Swiss cheese plant grows large, fenestrated leaves when properly cared for. It needs indirect bright light, regular watering, and a fertiliser that supports both foliage and root development. The best fertilizer for Swiss cheese plants should be formulated specifically for indoor plants, delivering key macronutrients—nitrogen (N) for leaf size, phosphorus (P) for root support, and potassium (K) for plant strength and resilience.

In a pot, Monstera plants are limited by root space and nutrient availability. Over time, soil depletes, and the plant relies solely on fertiliser for ongoing growth. Without it, you may see stunted leaves, pale colour, or a lack of fenestration (holes and splits) in new foliage. A consistent feeding routine with a balanced, low-phosphorus liquid fertiliser encourages vigorous growth and lush, vibrant leaves.

Swiss cheese plants are naturally vining, but you can encourage a bushier look by ensuring healthy roots, strong leaf production, and tight internodal growth. Fertiliser plays a critical role in this, especially when paired with proper light and humidity. The wrong fertiliser—especially those high in nitrogen without supporting minerals—can lead to leggy growth or oversized leaves on long, weak stems.

To maintain the aesthetic of a full, balanced plant indoors, provide nutrients in small, regular doses rather than strong, infrequent applications. Use a fertiliser that also includes trace elements like calcium, magnesium, and iron to improve leaf colour, reduce yellowing, and support the natural structure of the plant.

How to Fertilise Swiss Cheese Plants for Leaf Growth and Fuller Shape

Fertilising your Swiss cheese plant begins in early spring and continues through late summer. During this active growth period, feed every 1 to 2 weeks using a liquid fertiliser diluted in water. Always apply fertiliser after watering the soil to avoid root damage—especially in tight pots or dry substrates.

Choose a formulation with moderate nitrogen, low phosphorus, and balanced potassium, such as a 16-4-14 NPK ratio. This blend supports vigorous yet compact foliage growth, stronger root development, and healthier stems—resulting in a bushier plant without the need for aggressive pruning. For best results, fertilise during daylight hours when plant metabolism is active.

To encourage a fuller plant without cutting, position your Monstera in bright, indirect light (near an east or filtered north-facing window) and rotate it weekly. Consistent lighting, combined with a proper feeding schedule, keeps new leaves compact and encourages upward and outward growth. Insufficient feeding can result in spindly stems, slow development, and reduced split-leaf formation.

Avoid overfertilising—too much nitrogen can result in large leaves with no splits and overly fast growth that weakens the stem base. Brown leaf tips or salt crust on soil can also indicate excessive feeding. Flush the soil every few months with clean water to reset nutrient levels and promote long-term root health.

For trailing or vining Monsteras, a moss pole or trellis can encourage vertical growth. Feeding the plant at the base and providing support helps direct nutrients toward healthy leaf production rather than uncontrolled stretching. With the right fertiliser, even young Monsteras can develop mature, fenestrated leaves in a single growing season indoors.

Swiss Cheese Plant Feeding Tips, FAQs, and the Best Indoor Fertiliser

To get the most from your Swiss cheese plant, match your feeding habits to its light conditions and pot size. In brighter areas or during active growth phases, feed more frequently. In low light or winter months, reduce feeding to every 4–6 weeks or pause entirely. Always monitor for signs of overfeeding or underfeeding, adjusting your routine as needed.

Stick to indoor-safe formulas to avoid nutrient imbalances or salt damage. Spidering, drooping, or yellowing leaves are often symptoms of nutrient stress. If you notice weak stems or lack of growth despite proper watering and lighting, review your fertilising schedule and consider upgrading to a more balanced formula with trace minerals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best fertilizer for Swiss cheese plant?
A balanced indoor liquid fertiliser with a 16-4-14 NPK ratio is ideal. It supports foliage growth, root strength, and encourages a bushier, fuller appearance.
How do I make my Swiss cheese plant bushier?
Provide bright, indirect light, rotate the plant weekly, and fertilise consistently with a balanced indoor fertiliser. This encourages even growth without needing to prune heavily.
How often should I fertilize my Swiss cheese plant?
Every 1–2 weeks during spring and summer. Once monthly or paused in winter, depending on temperature and light levels indoors.
Why are the leaves not splitting?
Lack of light, inconsistent feeding, or root restriction can delay fenestration. Feed regularly and ensure the plant has enough space and light to mature.

Recommended Fertiliser: For vibrant, bushy Monstera growth indoors, we recommend CompleteGrow’s Indoor Plant Food Concentrate Fertiliser (16-4-14). Just 1 ml per litre of water delivers essential nutrients without overfeeding—perfect for Swiss cheese plants in pots or decorative planters.