Baby Monster 'Thai Constellation' High Variegation

**Monstera Thai Constellation** is a beautiful and highly sought-after variant of Monstera deliciosa, featuring cream-colored or white variegations in a star-like pattern, which is why it is named "Thai Constellation." The light patterns on the leaves make it especially eye-catching and popular among plant collectors. Like other plants with high variegation, it requires a bit of extra care.

### Appearance:
- **Leaves**: Large, deep green leaves with cream to light yellow patterns of various sizes and shapes. The leaves become more divided as the plant matures.
- **Growth**: Slow to moderate growth rate compared to the regular Monstera deliciosa, partly due to the reduced amount of chlorophyll.

### Care for Monstera Thai Constellation

#### 1. Light
- **Bright, indirect light**: Like other highly variegated plants, Monstera Thai Constellation needs plenty of indirect light to grow optimally. Too much direct sunlight can damage the lighter parts of the leaves, while too little light can reduce the variegation. Place it near a window with filtered light or use a grow light if natural light is insufficient.
- **Avoid direct sunlight**: The white or cream-colored parts of the leaves are sensitive to sunburn, so avoid direct sun exposure.

#### 2. Watering
- **Regular but moderate**: Monstera Thai Constellation prefers the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent root rot, to which this plant is sensitive.
- **Do not overwater**: Since the plant grows more slowly and has less chlorophyll, it is extra sensitive to overwatering, so avoid leaving it in soggy soil.

#### 3. Soil and Drainage
- **Well-draining soil**: Use a soil mix that allows good air circulation and drainage, such as a blend of orchid bark, peat moss, and perlite. This helps keep the soil airy and prevents the roots from becoming too wet.
- **pH level**: A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0) is ideal for this plant.

#### 4. Temperature and Humidity
- **Temperature**: Monstera Thai Constellation thrives in warm indoor environments, ideally between 18-27°C (65-80°F). Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 12°C (53°F), as this can damage the plant.
- **Humidity**: Higher humidity of around 60% or more is beneficial for this plant. If the humidity is too low, the leaves, especially the variegated parts, can dry out at the edges. You can use a humidifier or place the plant on a tray with water and pebbles to increase humidity around it.

#### 5. Fertilizing
- **Balanced fertilizer**: Use a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer (such as 20-20-20) once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the plant and its sensitive roots. In winter, reduce or pause fertilization, as the plant enters a dormant period.

#### 6. Pruning and Shaping
- **Remove damaged leaves**: Prune damaged or dead leaves to encourage new growth and keep the plant looking neat. If you notice the plant starting to produce too many green leaves, pruning them can help promote continued variegation.
- **Climbing support**: Since Monstera Thai Constellation is an epiphytic climber, it benefits from having support, such as a moss pole or climbing frame.

#### 7. Repotting
- **Repotting**: Repot every two years or when the plant has outgrown its pot. However, Monstera Thai Constellation is not fast-growing, so frequent repotting is usually not necessary. When repotting, use a slightly larger pot and fresh soil mix.

#### 8. Pests
- **Common pests**: It can be affected by spider mites, thrips, and scale insects. Inspect the leaves regularly, especially the undersides, and treat with soapy water or neem oil as needed.
- **Prevention**: Keep the plant clean and wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to reduce the risk of pests.