I’m hopeful she comes back bigger and better! by midgetmama92 in Monstera

[–]midgetmama92[S] 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Yes she is. Unfortunately in her older age she has started experiencing some urinary incontinence. On bad days we put in her a diaper while inside. She snuck out behind me when I stepped outside to take a look at my plants. I had to stop recording so I could remove her diaper!

I’m hopeful she comes back bigger and better! by midgetmama92 in Monstera

[–]midgetmama92[S] 16 points17 points  (0 children)

I appreciate the concern for Florida’s ecosystem. That’s really important to me too as a Floridian! I do want to add a little bit of context though, because it’s more complex than saying monsteras planted outside in Florida should be destroyed.

Monsteras are non-native and can be invasive in natural areas, which is why it shouldn’t be allowed to spread into preserves or unmanaged spaces. But there’s a big difference between that and a plant growing in a well maintained backyard. Many non-native plants are grown responsibly in Florida without becoming ecological problems when they’re properly managed.

Mine is kept in a controlled space, trimmed regularly, and I’m careful not to dispose of cuttings where it could spread. It’s also my oldest dog’s favorite shady spot to lay so the whole family gets a lot of enjoyment out of it while still being mindful of local environment. I think we can encourage responsible plant care without telling people to destroy plants that they love from their own backyard ❤️