How to Find and Care for a Trader Joe’s Monstera

While specialty nurseries are a common source for Monsteras, a budget-friendly option is the grocery store Trader Joe’s. Finding one here can be a challenge, but the reward is a lush, tropical plant without the high price tag. This guide covers spotting one in the store and ensuring its long-term health.

Finding a Monstera at Trader Joe’s

The primary allure of a Trader Joe’s Monstera is the price, which is between $12.99 and $15.99—a significant discount compared to garden centers. The most common species is the Monstera deliciosa, known for its large leaves that split as it matures. Less frequently, you might also find a Monstera adansonii, which has smaller, more perforated leaves.

These plants are not a consistent part of the store’s inventory. Their arrival is sporadic, with shipments appearing more frequently in the spring and fall. Due to high demand, they don’t last long, so checking the floral section during regular grocery runs is a good strategy. Following social media accounts that track new items at Trader Joe’s can also increase your chances.

The plants are located near the front of the store with other flowers and potted plants. Delivery schedules vary by location, but the plants are often put out the same day they arrive. Persistence is often necessary, as finding one may take a few tries.

Selecting a Healthy Plant In-Store

Once you’ve located the Monsteras, select the healthiest one available. Examine the tops and undersides of the leaves for any signs of pests like spider mites or mealybugs. Look for vibrant, green foliage and avoid plants with excessive yellowing leaves or brown, crispy spots, as these can indicate stress or disease.

Check the soil, as grocery store plants are often overwatered. The soil should be slightly moist but not waterlogged or soggy, which can lead to root rot. If possible, check the drainage holes for any roots that appear mushy or dark brown.

Look for signs of new growth, such as a lighter green, tightly furled leaf spike. A plant that is actively producing new leaves is a good indicator of robust health. A strong stem structure is another positive sign to look for when selecting your plant.

Initial Care After Bringing It Home

When you bring your new Monstera home, the first step is to quarantine it for two weeks. Keep the new plant in a separate room from any other houseplants you own. This isolation period ensures that any unseen pests from the store do not spread to your existing collection.

During this time, let the plant acclimate to its new environment. Do not immediately repot it, as this adds stress to a plant adjusting to new conditions. Place it in a spot that receives bright, indirect light and avoid moving it.

Check the soil moisture upon arriving home. If the soil is overly wet from the store, allow it to dry out more than usual before its first watering to mitigate root rot. After two weeks, if the plant appears healthy and pest-free, you can move it to its permanent spot.

Long-Term Monstera Care Essentials

Monsteras thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. A spot near an east-facing window or a few feet from a south or west-facing window is ideal. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so filter intense light with a sheer curtain.

Monsteras prefer to dry out partially between waterings. A good method is to check the top two inches of soil; if it’s dry, it’s time to water. Water thoroughly until it runs out of the drainage holes, and then discard any excess water from the saucer.

Trader Joe’s Monsteras often come in decorative pots that lack drainage holes. These pots can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot. It is best to move the plant into a pot with adequate drainage. You can repot it directly or use the decorative pot as a cachepot, placing the nursery pot inside and removing it for watering.

As the plant grows, provide a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the spring and summer growing season. This will support its development and encourage new growth.