Monstera Piccolo Care Guide
RICARDO THE MONSTERA PICCOLO
Also known as the Rhaphidophora tetrasperma Piccolo is native to the tropical forests of Central America and South America.
LIGHTING 
The Rhaphidophora tetrasperma is happy in most light conditions. A medium to indirect bright light will be perfect for Ricardo but he will grow better in a sunnier spot. Keep Ricardo away from any direct light, this will burn his delicate thin leaves. Ricardo is a good winter plant as he won’t mind the lower levels of daylight. Lighting-wise Ricardo pairs perfectly with Benny and Drake.
WATERING 
Ricardo the mini Monstera is not a big drinker but does like to be watered regularly. Wait until the first 2-3 inches of the soil is dry before you water again. In the winter time you can reduce his watering schedule as his soil will dry out less frequently. Grab our stylish silver and white watering can to help keep Ricardo hydrated.
HUMIDITY 
The Rhaphidophora tetrasperma is from a humid climate and will appreciate moisture on his leaves. To replicate his natural habitat you can place him next to a humidifier, or use a pebble tray underneath his pot. Find out how to increase humidity in your home here.
TEMPERATURE 
Due to his thin foliage the Rhaphidophora tetrasperma isn’t tolerant to cooler temperatures. The perfect indoor temperature for Ricardo is between 20-30 degrees celsius. As long as the indoor temperature doesn't dip lower than 20°C Ricardo will be happy.
FERTILISER 
To promote growth use our vegan organic fertiliser or our fortifying houseplant fertiliser every 4-6 weeks in the months from March-September.
REPOTTING 
The mini monstera is fast growing and will produce a lot of new growth over the spring and summer months. Repot him every year to give him more room to grow. You can check the bottom of the nursery pot, if you can see his roots sticking out the bottom it's time to repot. Check out our incredible peat free potting mix.
TROUBLESHOOTING YOUR MONSTERA PICCOLO
Dry or crispy leaf edges -The crispy or dry edges are a sign that Ricardo is lacking humidity. Increase his humidity levels by misting his foliage every 2-3 days or move him to a bathroom.
Drooping leaves - When the soil dries out the monstera's foliage will start to droop and this will indicate that he needs a drink. If the first few inches of soil is bone dry to touch, it's time to water. Pour out the excess water from his decorative pot or sit him in the bathtub until the water has been properly drained.
Yellow leaves - Yellow leaves often indicate that the mini monstera has been overwatered. You can remove this leaf by cutting the stem at the base of the plant. Reduce his watering schedule especially in the winter months.
Slow growth or no new growth - If the Rhaphidophora tetrasperma growth slows down or stops completely, this could be a sign that he needs repotting or that he is not getting enough sunlight. Place Ricardo in a sunny spot where he can get a lot of indirect light. Every year check the bottom of his nursery pot for signs that he has outgrown his current home.
OUR TOP 3 CARE TIPS 
Top tip 1: The Rhaphidophora tetrasperma loves to absorb moisture through his leaves. Use our beautifying leaf shine on his leaves to keep the foliage vibrant and healthy.
Top tip 2: The Rhaphidophora tetrasperma is draft and cold sensitive. Avoid placing him near the radiator, open windows or air vents in the winter months.
Top tip 3: The Rhaphidophora tetrasperma is a climbing plant and given the right conditions he will climb walls. Use a moss pole to help encourage his upward growth.
