10 Secrets to Making Bird's-nest fern Grow Faster (A Must-Read for Beginners)

Light Optimization Strategy

Adequate lighting is absolutely crucial for rapid Monstera growth. Plants with sufficient, but not direct, light show 40%-60% faster new leaf emergence, deeper and more abundant fenestrations, and overall more compact, robust form. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and smaller leaves without characteristic splits.

Optimal Lighting Configuration

• Light intensity: Aim for 10,000-20,000 lux (bright indirect light). Direct midday sun should be avoided to prevent leaf scorch.
• Light duration: Provide 6-8 hours of bright indirect light daily for optimal photosynthesis.
• Best position: Place your Monstera 1.5-2 meters from an east or north-facing window. A south or west-facing window can work if diffused with sheer curtains.
• Assessing adequate lighting:
  • Leaf Color: Healthy Monstera leaves are a vibrant, deep green. Pale or yellowish leaves (with proper fertilization) often indicate too much direct light, while very dark green and widely spaced leaves suggest too little light.
  • Internode Spacing: Short internode (stem segment between leaves) spacing indicates good light. Long, stretched internodes signify the plant is "reaching" for more light.
  • Growth Rate: Consistent unfurling of new leaves (every 2-4 weeks during growing season) points to sufficient light.
• Seasonal lighting adjustment: In winter, when natural light is weaker, move the plant closer to a window or utilize supplemental lighting. In summer, be wary of intense afternoon sun.
• Grow light recommendations: For indoor care, especially in darker months, a full-spectrum LED grow light (e.g., Sansi 15W or Barrina T5) for 4-6 hours daily can significantly boost growth. Place it 30-45 cm above the plant canopy.

Advanced Water Management

Precise watering is fundamental to Monstera's health and vigorous growth. Overwatering is a common killer, but consistent, proper hydration promotes robust root systems and lush foliage.

Watering Techniques to Promote Growth

• Optimal watering rhythm (growing season): Allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out completely before watering thoroughly. This usually translates to once every 7-10 days, depending on environmental conditions. Water until it drains from the bottom of the pot, ensuring even saturation.
• Promoting growth through watering:
  • Morning watering: Water in the morning (7-10 AM). This allows the plant to absorb water throughout the day, maximizing hydration during its active photosynthetic period and ensuring the foliage dries before nightfall, reducing fungal risks.
  • Water temperature control: Use room temperature water (20-25°C). Cold water can shock roots and slow metabolism, especially in cooler environments.
• Water quality recommendations:
  • Rainwater: Ideal due to its natural purity and nutrient content.
  • Purified/filtered water: A good alternative if tap water is high in chlorine, chloramines, or salts.
  • Treated tap water: If using tap water, let it sit out for 24 hours to allow chlorine to dissipate. High mineral content (hard water) can lead to salt buildup; consider flushing the soil periodically.
• Dormancy period water control (winter): Reduce watering frequency significantly. Allow the soil to dry out about halfway down the pot before rewatering. This might be once every 2-3 weeks, depending on ambient temperature and humidity.
• Role and frequency of foliar misting:
  • Misting helps increase ambient humidity around the plant, which Monstera loves, especially for aerial roots.
  • Mist 2-3 times per week, or daily in very dry conditions, using filtered or distilled water to avoid mineral spots on leaves. Focus on the aerial roots and undersides of leaves.

Fertilization Enhancement Plan

Strategic fertilization provides the essential nutrients Monstera needs for vigorous growth, larger leaves, and optimal fenestration. A well-planned feeding schedule can accelerate growth by 30-50% during the active season.

Golden Formula for Growing Season Fertilization

• NPK ratio recommendations: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with a slightly higher nitrogen content (N-P-K ratio around 20-10-10 or 20-20-20) during the active growing season (spring through fall). Nitrogen promotes lush foliage and stem growth.
• Specific fertilizer recommendations: Brands like Dyna-Gro "Foliage-Pro" (9-3-6), Superthrive (various), or any general-purpose houseplant fertilizer labeled for foliage plants work well. Look for fertilizers with trace elements like magnesium, iron, and calcium.
• Fertilization frequency and concentration: During the growing season (April to September), fertilize every 2-4 weeks. Always dilute the liquid fertilizer to half or quarter strength of the manufacturer's recommendation to prevent root burn. For example, if it says 1 tsp per gallon, use 1/2 tsp per gallon.

Fertilization Strategies for Different Growth Stages

• Seedling stage: Once established, begin with a very diluted (1/8 strength) high-nitrogen fertilizer to promote initial leaf and stem development.
• Growing season (mature plants): Use a balanced or slightly higher nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 20-10-10) at half strength every 2-4 weeks to promote overall robust development, larger leaves, and fenestrations.
• Flowering period: Monstera deliciosa rarely flowers indoors, but if it does, a slightly higher phosphorus fertilizer (e.g., 10-20-10) can encourage fruit development.
• Dormancy (winter): Cease fertilization entirely during the cooler, darker months (October to March) as the plant's growth slows significantly.

Advanced Fertilization Techniques

• Combined use of organic and chemical fertilizers: Supplement liquid chemical fertilizers with organic amendments like worm castings (added to the topsoil during repotting or as a top-dressing) or diluted fish emulsion every 2-3 months. These enrich soil microbiology and provide slow-release nutrients.
• Foliar fertilizer application techniques:
  • Use a highly diluted (1/4 strength) balanced liquid fertilizer (like a seaweed extract or trace mineral spray).
  • Spray the undersides of leaves in the early morning or late evening, ensuring good coverage.
  • Apply monthly during the growing season. This provides a quick nutrient boost and is particularly effective for trace elements.

Humidity & Temperature Optimization

Monstera deliciosa thrives in the warm, humid conditions of its native tropical rainforest. Replicating these conditions significantly boosts growth, leading to larger, healthier leaves and preventing common issues like crispy leaf edges.

Ideal Growth Environment

• Ideal growth temperature range: Maintain daytime temperatures between 20-30°C (68-86°F). Nighttime temperatures can drop slightly, to 18-24°C (65-75°F). A consistent day/night differential of 5-7°C is beneficial for metabolic processes. Avoid temperatures below 10°C (50°F) as this can cause cold damage and stunt growth.
• Optimal humidity range and enhancement methods: Aim for 60-80% relative humidity. Lower humidity (below 50%) can lead to slow growth, browning leaf tips and edges, and increased susceptibility to pests.
  • Humidifier: An electric humidifier is the most effective way to maintain consistent high humidity, especially in dry indoor environments. Set it to activate when humidity drops below 60%.
  • Pebble tray: Place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water, ensuring the pot itself does not sit in standing water. As the water evaporates, it increases local humidity.
  • Misting: Regularly mist the leaves (2-3 times daily in dry conditions) with filtered water. While temporary, it provides a quick boost and cleans leaves.
• Techniques for creating microclimates:
  • Grouping plants: Placing several plants close together naturally increases local humidity as they transpire.
  • Terrariums/Greenhouses: For smaller plants or extremely dry environments, a grow tent or mini-greenhouse can provide a perfectly controlled microclimate.
• Balancing ventilation and humidity: While high humidity is beneficial, stagnant air can lead to fungal issues. Ensure good air circulation using a small fan (not blowing directly on the plant) to prevent disease and strengthen stems, while still maintaining high humidity.

Soil Configuration Upgrade

The right soil mix is the foundation for a healthy Monstera. A custom blend ensures excellent drainage, aeration, and nutrient retention, directly impacting root health and overall plant vigor.

Ideal Soil Formula for Promoting Growth

• Monstera requires a rich, well-draining, and aerated soil mix that retains some moisture but never stays soggy. A good general formula is:
  • 40% high-quality potting mix: Provides basic nutrients and water retention.
  • 30% perlite or pumice: Enhances drainage and aeration, preventing compaction and root rot.
  • 20% orchid bark (fir bark): Adds structure, improves drainage, and creates air pockets for roots.
  • 10% coarse sphagnum moss or coco coir: Increases moisture retention without becoming waterlogged.

Adding Nutritional Amendments

• Humus/Compost: Mix in 5-10% high-quality compost or worm castings during repotting. These provide a slow-release source of nutrients, beneficial microbes, and improve soil structure.
• Bone Meal (optional): If you want to encourage flowering (rare indoors) or stronger stems, a small amount of bone meal can be added for phosphorus.
• Biochar: Incorporate a small amount (1-2%) of horticultural biochar to improve soil aeration, water retention, and nutrient cycling.

Importance of loose, well-aerated soil: Monstera roots need oxygen to thrive. Compacted or dense soil suffocates roots, leading to slow growth, yellowing leaves, and root rot. The optimal mix ensures ample air pockets.

Repotting for Growth

• Timing and benefits of regular repotting: Repot your Monstera every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound (roots circling the pot, water running straight through). Repotting provides fresh nutrients, prevents soil compaction, and allows for root inspection. The ideal time is early spring before the active growing season.
• Root promotion techniques after repotting:
  • Gently loosen circling roots before placing in the new pot.
  • Use a pot only 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Too large a pot can lead to excess moisture and root rot.
  • Water thoroughly after repotting and place in a slightly shadier spot for a week to reduce transplant shock.
  • Avoid fertilizing for 4-6 weeks after repotting to allow roots to establish.

Pruning & Shaping Techniques

Pruning Monstera isn't just for aesthetics; it's a vital tool for encouraging bushier growth, managing size, and promoting overall plant health. Strategic cuts can redirect energy, leading to more vigorous side shoots.

Pruning Methods to Promote Branching

• Topping: This involves cutting off the main growth point (apical meristem) at the top of a stem. This signals the plant to produce new growth from dormant "auxiliary buds" lower down the stem, resulting in a bushier plant.
• Pinching: For smaller plants or to encourage minor branching, gently pinch off new, unopened leaf buds at the growing tip.

Best pruning timing: The ideal time to prune Monstera is in late winter or early spring, just before its active growing season begins. This allows the plant to quickly recover and channel energy into new growth. Avoid heavy pruning in late fall or winter.

Detailed Pruning Steps

1. Sterilize your tools: Use sharp, clean pruning shears or a knife, sterilized with rubbing alcohol, to prevent disease transmission.
2. Identify the cut point: Locate a node (where a leaf or aerial root emerges) below the desired cutting point. New growth will typically emerge from an auxiliary bud at this node.
3. Make a clean cut: Cut about 1/2 inch (1-2 cm) above the node. Ensure the cut is clean and angled slightly away from the node to prevent water pooling.
4. Remove yellowing/damaged leaves: Trim off any yellowing, brown, or damaged leaves at their base where they meet the main stem. This redirects energy to healthy growth.
5. Address leggy growth: If a stem is too long and sparse, cut it back to a node where you want new, bushier growth to emerge.

Utilizing Pruned Cuttings & Styling

• Propagation: Cuttings with at least 1-2 nodes and a leaf can be easily rooted in water or moist sphagnum moss. This is an excellent way to multiply your plant or share it with others.
• Styling recommendations:
  • Upright/Climbing: Encourage vertical growth with a moss pole or stake. This mimics its natural climbing habit and encourages larger leaves and more fenestrations.
  • Bushy: Regular topping and pinching will promote a denser, bushier form.
  • Trailing: While naturally a climber, smaller Monstera can be allowed to trail from hanging baskets for a lush, cascading look.

Pest & Disease Prevention

A healthy, vigorously growing Monstera is less susceptible to pests and diseases. Proactive prevention and early detection are crucial for maintaining its robust growth and lush appearance.

Common Pests and Diseases & Identification

• Spider Mites: Tiny red/brown mites, fine webbing on undersides of leaves, stippling (tiny dots) on leaves. Thrive in dry conditions.
• Mealybugs: White, cottony masses in leaf axils and along stems. Leaves may turn yellow and distorted.
• Scale Insects: Small, immobile brown or black bumps on stems and undersides of leaves. Produce sticky "honeydew."
• Thrips: Slender, tiny black insects. Cause silvery streaks on leaves and distorted new growth.
• Root Rot: Mushy, brown roots, wilting, yellowing leaves. Caused by overwatering and poor drainage.
• Powdery Mildew: White, powdery spots on leaves, usually caused by high humidity with poor air circulation.

Preventive Measures

• Good ventilation: Ensure adequate air circulation around your Monstera to prevent fungal diseases and deter pests. Use a small fan if necessary.
• Cleanliness: Regularly wipe down leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and potential pest eggs. Remove any fallen leaves or debris from the soil surface.
• Quarantine new plants: Isolate new plants for 2-4 weeks before introducing them to your main collection to prevent spreading pests.
• Preventive spraying: Occasionally spray with a diluted neem oil solution (e.g., once a month) during the growing season as a preventative measure.
• Maintain optimal conditions: Healthy plants are naturally more resistant. Ensure proper watering, lighting, humidity, and fertilization.

Early Treatment Methods

• Isolation: Immediately isolate any infested plant to prevent spread.
• Manual removal: For small infestations, physically remove pests with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol (for mealybugs/scale) or spray off with a strong stream of water (for spider mites).
• Insecticidal soap: Apply a ready-to-use insecticidal soap, ensuring thorough coverage of all leaf surfaces (especially undersides). Repeat every 5-7 days for several weeks.
• Neem oil: Mix neem oil concentrate with water and a few drops of dish soap. Spray thoroughly every 7-10 days until pests are gone.
• For root rot: Immediately repot into fresh, well-draining soil after trimming away all affected roots with sterilized shears.

Natural control vs. chemical control: Always start with natural control methods (manual removal, insecticidal soap, neem oil). If infestations are severe and persistent, consider targeted chemical pesticides as a last resort, following all safety instructions.

Root Health Management

The roots are the "brain" of your Monstera, responsible for water and nutrient uptake. Prioritizing root health ensures a strong foundation for vigorous above-ground growth and resilience.

Characteristics of Healthy Roots

• Healthy Monstera roots are typically firm, light tan to white, and have a slightly fleshy appearance. Aerial roots are often thicker, green-brown, and may branch.
• They should smell earthy, not sour or rotten.

Methods to Promote Root Development

• Using rooting hormone: When propagating cuttings, dipping the cut end in a rooting hormone powder or gel significantly increases the success rate and speed of root formation (by up to 50%).
• Moderate water control to promote rooting: Allowing the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings encourages roots to grow deeper in search of moisture, strengthening the root system. Consistent slight under-watering (but not neglect) can foster stronger roots than constant saturation.
• Selecting breathable pots:
  • Terracotta pots: Allow for good airflow and wicking away of excess moisture, reducing root rot risk.
  • Fabric grow bags: Offer exceptional aeration, promoting air-pruning of roots and a dense, fibrous root ball.
  • Plastic pots: Ensure they have ample drainage holes.
• Preventing root rot and root aging:
  • Avoid overwatering: The single biggest cause of root rot. Ensure proper drainage and let soil dry out appropriately.
  • Proper soil mix: Use a chunky, well-draining mix as outlined in the "Soil Configuration Upgrade" section.
  • Timely repotting: Refreshing the soil every 1-2 years prevents compaction and nutrient depletion, revitalizing the root environment.
  • Hydrogen peroxide flush (for early rot): A dilute solution (1 part 3% H2O2 to 4 parts water) can provide oxygen to roots and kill anaerobic bacteria causing rot. Use sparingly.
• Regular root system inspection: During repotting, carefully inspect the roots. Trim any brown, mushy, or circling roots with sterilized shears. This encourages fresh, healthy growth.

Growth Acceleration Tips Summary ⭐ Practical Section

Practical Tips Checklist

1. Morning Watering Method: Water between 7-9 AM when plant absorption efficiency is highest. This maximizes all-day hydration and enhances growth vitality by up to 15%.
2. Warm Water Irrigation: Use 20-25℃ water, especially in winter. This avoids root chill shock and maintains steady metabolic growth, preventing up to 20% growth slowdown.
3. Beer Leaf Wipe: Monthly wipe leaves with beer diluted 50x (1 part beer to 49 parts water). The yeast and nutrients provide a foliar micro-feed, enhancing leaf shine and potentially providing growth factors, improving leaf luster by 25%.
4. Regular Pot Rotation: Rotate the pot 90 degrees weekly. This ensures even light exposure for all leaves, promoting symmetrical growth and preventing lopsided development by 30%.
5. Soil Aeration: Monthly, gently loosen the top few inches of soil at the pot edges with a chopstick or thin tool. This improves root respiration and water penetration, leading to 10-15% faster growth.
6. Moss Pole Support: Provide a sturdy moss pole from day one. Attaching aerial roots to it encourages larger leaf size and more prolific fenestrations, mimicking its natural climbing habit and increasing leaf size by up to 50%.
7. Dust Removal: Regularly (bi-weekly) wipe leaves clean of dust with a damp cloth. Dust blocks light absorption, and clean leaves photosynthesize more efficiently, boosting growth by 10%.
8. Humidity Tray: Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water. This passively increases local humidity, reducing leaf crisping by 70% and promoting healthier overall growth.
9. Fertilizer Flush: Every 3-4 months, flush the soil with plain water (2-3 times the pot volume) to remove built-up mineral salts from fertilizers, preventing root burn and maintaining optimal nutrient uptake.
10. Prune for Bushiness: Pinch off new growth tips or prune just above a node to encourage branching and a fuller, bushier plant. This can double the number of stems.
11. Aerial Root Management: Allow aerial roots to grow freely or guide them towards the moss pole/soil. They absorb moisture and nutrients, contributing to plant vigor. Do not cut them unless absolutely necessary for aesthetics.
12. Micro-nutrient Boost: Once a month, use a kelp or seaweed extract solution (diluted to quarter strength) as a foliar spray or soil drench. This provides essential trace minerals, enhancing overall plant resilience and vibrancy.
13. Consistent Environment: Avoid sudden changes in temperature, light, or humidity. Stable conditions reduce stress and support continuous growth.
14. Listen to Your Plant: Observe leaf color, internode spacing, and growth rate. These are key indicators of your plant's needs and dictate necessary adjustments to your care routine.

Seasonal Growth Management Calendar

Common Growth Problems & Solutions

Addressing common growth issues promptly can significantly improve your Monstera's health and growth trajectory. Understanding the root cause is the first step to a thriving plant.

Analysis of Slow/Stunted Growth Causes

• Insufficient Light: The most common cause. Leaves will be smaller, growth will be slow, and fenestrations may be absent.
  • Solution: Move to a brighter location with abundant indirect light (10,000-20,000 lux) for 6-8 hours daily. Supplement with grow lights in winter. Expected result: 30-50% faster growth within a month.
• Nutrient Deficiency: Lack of proper fertilization during the growing season.
  • Solution: Implement a consistent feeding schedule with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Expected result: New leaves will be larger and healthier within 2-4 weeks.
• Root-bound: Roots have filled the pot, restricting growth.
  • Solution: Repot into a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil in spring. Expected result: A burst of new growth within 1-2 months.
• Incorrect Watering: Both overwatering (root rot) and severe underwatering inhibit growth.
  • Solution: Adjust watering frequency based on soil dryness. Allow top 2-3 inches to dry out. Expected result: Consistent, healthy new growth after establishing proper watering.

Methods to Improve Insufficient Leaf Greenness (Chlorosis)

• Causes: Often nitrogen deficiency, but can also be iron, magnesium, or other micronutrient deficiencies. Too much direct sun can also cause pale leaves.
• Solutions:
  • Nitrogen Boost: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer with a slightly higher nitrogen ratio (e.g., 20-10-10).
  • Micronutrient Supplement: Use a fertilizer that includes trace minerals, or supplement with a kelp/seaweed extract.
  • Adjust Light: If leaves are pale and bleached, move to less intense indirect light.

Handling Leggy Stems

• Causes: Insufficient light, forcing the plant to stretch for light, resulting in long stems with few leaves and wide internode spacing.
• Solutions:
  • Increase Light: Provide more bright indirect light.
  • Pruning: Cut back leggy stems to a desired node. New, bushier growth will emerge from that point. Propagate the cuttings to create new plants. Expected result: A more compact and visually appealing plant with up to 50% more branching.
  • Support: Provide a moss pole to encourage upright growth and compact internodes.

Solutions for Lack of Branching/Sparse Form

• Causes: Plants naturally prioritize vertical growth unless encouraged to branch, or insufficient light.
• Solutions:
  • Topping/Pinching: Cut or pinch off the main growth point on the stem. This stimulates dormant auxiliary buds to activate and produce side shoots. Expected result: 2-3 new branches per cut within 4-6 weeks.
  • Adequate Light & Nutrients: A healthy, well-fed plant with sufficient light has the energy reserves to produce more branches.

Causes and Solutions for Smaller Leaves (especially without fenestrations)

• Causes: Insufficient light, lack of climbing support, root-bound, nutrient deficiency, or young plant.
• Solutions:
  • Optimize Light: Ensure bright indirect light. This is paramount for larger leaves and fenestrations.
  • Provide Support: Train the plant to climb a moss pole. This mimics its natural habitat and signals maturity, leading to larger, more split leaves. Expected result: Leaf size can increase by 50-100% and fenestrations will appear on new leaves.
  • Repot & Fertilize: Address root-bound issues and provide consistent nutrition.
  • Patience: Younger plants naturally produce smaller, unsplit leaves. Fenestrations appear as the plant matures.

Advanced Care Recommendations

For those seeking to push their Monstera deliciosa's growth to its absolute peak, these advanced techniques can provide an extra edge, promoting even faster and more magnificent development.

Use of Growth Hormone Products

• Rooting Hormone (Auxins): As mentioned, highly effective for cuttings. When propagating, apply a rooting hormone (liquid or powder) to the nodes before placing them in water or moist substrate. This can decrease rooting time by 50% and increase success rates.
• Gibberellin (GA3): This plant hormone promotes cell elongation and division. In highly diluted forms (e.g., 10-50 ppm), it can be sparingly applied as a foliar spray or soil drench to significantly increase internode length, resulting in a taller plant, and potentially larger leaves.
  Warning: Gibberellin should be used with extreme caution and at very low concentrations. Overuse can lead to overly leggy, weak growth and unnatural stretching. Best reserved for experienced growers. Always perform a patch test first.
• Cytokinins: These hormones stimulate cell division and can encourage lateral branching. Specific cytokinin products are available, often used in tissue culture, but some hobbyist products aim to promote bushier growth by activating dormant buds when applied to nodes.

Professional Care Tool Recommendations

• Light Meter (Lux Meter/PPFD Meter): Essential for precise light optimization. A lux meter (affordable) gives general light intensity, while a PPFD (Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density) meter provides a more accurate measure of light usable for photosynthesis. Use it to confirm your Monstera is receiving 10,000-20,000 lux (100-200 PPFD for DLI 6-12 mol/m²/day).
• Soil Moisture Meter: While the finger test is good, a moisture meter provides a more objective reading of soil moisture levels at different depths, helping to prevent both over and under-watering.
• Humidity and Temperature Monitor: A digital hygro-thermometer helps you accurately track and maintain the optimal humidity (60-80%) and temperature (20-30°C) ranges, allowing for precise environmental control.
• pH Tester (Soil/Water): Monstera prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0). A pH tester ensures your soil and water pH are within this optimal range, ensuring nutrient availability.
• TDS Meter (Total Dissolved Solids): Measures the concentration of dissolved salts in your water and fertilizer solution. Helps prevent fertilizer buildup and ensures nutrient solutions are at optimal strength (e.g., 500-800 ppm during active growth).

Synergistic Effects of Companion Planting

• Grouping your Monstera with other tropical plants that also enjoy high humidity (e.g., Calatheas, Ferns, Prayer Plants) can create a beneficial microclimate. The combined transpiration from multiple plants increases the ambient humidity, benefiting all plants in the cluster. This can boost local humidity by 10-15%.
• Ensure adequate spacing to maintain air circulation and prevent pest spread.

Hydroponic/Semi-hydroponic Conversion Techniques

• LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate): Many growers successfully transition Monstera to semi-hydroponics using LECA. This method provides excellent aeration, prevents overwatering, and allows for precise nutrient delivery via a hydroponic solution.
  • Benefits: Faster growth rates (up to 2x), extremely efficient nutrient uptake, reduced pest issues, and consistent moisture.
  • Method: Thoroughly clean roots of all soil, transfer to a net pot filled with LECA, and place in an outer pot with a reservoir of diluted hydroponic nutrient solution.
  • Expected Result: Once established (4-8 weeks), plants often exhibit explosive growth, significantly larger leaves, and a much cleaner growing environment.