Monstera Watering Guide: Best Practices for Healthy Plants

Monstera plants have taken over the world of houseplants recently; it’s hard to walk into a home with any greenery without seeing their infamous split leaves. This beautiful, easy going plant is perfect for any home and requires minimal upkeep - as long as you know how to take care of them correctly.

One factor that is crucial when caring for Monsteras is accurate watering - get it wrong and your plant won't thrive! With this in mind, today's blog post will be covering the ins-and-outs of Monstera waterings so that you can be sure your beloved green pet grows to its full potential. So read on for our complete guide on the best practices for a healthy & happy houseplant oasis!

Getting to Know the Monstera Plants

Monstera plants are native to tropical regions such as Central and South America. The plant's lush, tropical appearance is a result of thriving in nutrient-rich soil and damp air. some of the widely known species include Monstera deliciosa, Monstera Adansonii, and Monstera Pinnatipartita. They have thick, glossy, lush leaves, and their distinct silhouette is instantly recognizable.

The plant's perfection in design is a result of evolution where the plant would adapt to changing environmental conditions. Found naturally in the understory and forest floor beneath more extensive trees, Monstera plants receive very little direct sunlight in their natural environments.

Different Monstera species have varying aesthetic appeal based on their growth rates and leaves' primary patterns. Some are relatively slow, while others grow at a faster rate. The Monstera dDliciosa with large perforated leaves known as the "Swiss cheese plant," while Monstera Adansonii has a more delicate appearance, with small, heart-shaped leaves decorated with distinct gap patterns.

Watering Fundamentals

To understand how to water your Monstera effectively, it's important to first understand its natural watering needs. As a tropical plant, Monstera thrives in warm, humid environments. In the wild, it's often found growing in rainforests where it receives consistent moisture from both rain and the surrounding humidity.

This means that Monstera prefers an evenly moist environment rather than one that's completely dry or always wet. As a rule, you should aim to keep the soil moisture stable but not overly saturated.

Figuring out your Monstera watering will depend on several factors, including:

• The current season

• The amount of light it receives

• The type of soil it is planted in

• The choice of pot

Let's explore each of these factors in detail to ensure the well-being of your Monstera plant.

Seasonal Watering Adjustments

• Spring and Summer: The spring and summer months are the growing season for Monstera houseplants. In these warmer months, the plant is thriving and will require more water. Your Monstera loves its soil to be slightly damp but never waterlogged.

• Fall and Winter: Alternatively, in the fall and winter months, Monstera plants enter dormancy and grow at a much slower rate. During these months, you will need to reduce the amount of water you provide your Monstera. Typically, in winter months, Monstera plants only need water about once per month.

• How often? Depending on your home's temperature and humidity levels, you will need to water your Monstera every one to two weeks. A good rule of thumb is to wait until the top 2-3 inches of soil have dried out before watering again.

• Temperature impact: In an ideal world, the temperature in our homes would remain constant throughout the year. Unfortunately, this is not the case, and your Monstera plant's watering schedule will need to adjust accordingly.

• Indoor heating and cooling They can dry out the air in your home, causing your Monstera plant's soil to dry out much faster than usual. It is common for Monstera plants to require more frequent watering when indoor heating is in use.

• Use humidifier: You can combat this dry indoor air by using a humidifier near your Monstera plant or placing a tray of water near it. As the water in the tray evaporates, it will increase the humidity around your Monstera. This humidity will help keep your Monstera plant's soil evenly moist, and you won't have to water it as often.

Light and Water: The Vital Connection

Light is a key element in photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into sugar to fuel their growth. Different light levels can affect how much water your Monstera absorbs, which determines how often you need to water it.

The location of your Monstera is also vital when it comes to watering. Ideally, your houseplants should be placed in a spot that mimics their natural environment.

Monstera plants originate from the rainforests of Central and South America, where they grow under the shade of tall trees. By placing your Monstera in a bright, indirect spot, you'll create a similar environment that promotes healthy growth.

While Monstera plants thrive in bright indirect light, the direct sun can scorch and damage their foliage. If you notice yellowing leaves, it could be a sign that your plant is receiving too much sunlight. Conversely, if the leaves turn dark green and become more elongated, it's a sign that your Monstera is not getting enough light.

Brighter light levels increase transpiration, which means your Monstera will need more water to stay hydrated. Thus, it's essential to monitor your plant's light levels and adjust its watering schedule accordingly.

Read a comprehensive guide about the Monstera light requirements here.

Soil and its Role in Efficient Watering

• Good drainage: Monsteras are tropical plants that thrive in well-draining soil. The best soil types recommended for it include a mixture of potting soil, perlite, and sand. These components ensure that the soil's texture is porous, allowing water to percolate through quickly.

• Root rot prevention: Avoid using heavy soil types, such as garden soil or loam, as they tend to hold water for a long, leading to root rot. A sign of poor soil quality is when the soil remains soggy and doesn't drain out.

• Finger test: Before watering your Monsteras, allow the soil to dry up a little, but never let it dry out completely. To determine if the soil is dry enough for watering, stick your finger in the soil. If your finger comes out dry, go ahead and water the plant. If you feel any moisture, let the soil dry a bit before watering the plant. By using the finger test, you can avoid watering problems leading to root rot.

Right Pot and Watering Considerations

• Pot size: When it comes to the right pot size, it’s always best to consider the size of your Monstera plant. In general, these houseplants have an expansive root system and need a large pot compared to some other plants. A general rule of thumb is to use a pot that is just 2-3 inches larger than the current root ball. This way, the plant can have enough room to grow without causing waterlogging.

• About the drainage again: One of the most crucial elements of Monstera care is adequate drainage. Your Monstera plant must have a pot with proper drainage to prevent overwatering, which can lead to problems with roots, infections, and eventual plant death. A drainage hole in the pot is essential for the soil to dry out a bit between watering.

• Decorative pot: If you’re using a decorative pot without drainage holes, it’s best to keep the plant in a plastic pot with drainage holes underneath and insert the plastic pot into the decorative pot. This way, water will drain out, and the soil can dry out before the next watering.

• Oxygen importance: If your Monstera plant’s pot doesn’t drain correctly, the roots will not receive enough oxygen. The roots require oxygen just as much as they need nutrients and water. That’s why proper drainage is vital to ensure a healthy root system, allowing air to circulate through the soil and roots. Without this necessary air circulation, root rot and fungal infections can occur, affecting the plant's overall health.

Self-Watering Pot for Monstera

In general, Monstera does really well in self-watering pots as they ensure that the plant stays properly hydrated, which is key to its growth and survival. These pots allow for bottom watering, which means that the plant can access water from the bottom up, just like it would in nature. This also helps prevent overwatering, which is a common problem when you’re trying to keep your Monstera happy and healthy. With a self-watering pot, the plant can only take in the amount of water it needs, which reduces the risk of root rot or other issues that can come from too much moisture.

If you don't have a self-watering pot, you still can use the bottom watering method, which involves placing a saucer underneath the pot. This technique allows the saucer to collect any excess water, preventing it from pooling in the pot and ensuring a delicate balance between moist and dry soil.

Selecting the Right Water for Your Monstera Plant

• Tap water: Tap water is the most common and convenient type of water for watering plants. However, it can have a high concentration of minerals, chemicals like chlorine and fluoride, which can be harmful to your Monstera plant's growth.

• Let it sit: If you have no other option than to use tap water, make sure to allow the water to sit out for at least 24 hours before watering your Monstera. This will allow the chemicals and minerals to evaporate, making the water less harmful.

• Filtered water: Filtered water is a healthier alternative to tap water for your Monstera plant. It removes the harmful chemicals and minerals in tap water, allowing your Monstera plant to absorb only the nutrients it requires.

• Filters use: Filters can be installed directly to your tap or bought in pitcher form, making it easy and convenient to obtain. However, it is recommended to change the filter regularly to maintain water quality.

• Distilled water: Distilled water is a type of water that has undergone a process where all impurities and minerals are removed through steaming and condensation. The result is pure and mineral-free water that can help your Monstera plant to thrive.

• Minerals: It is a good alternative for individuals living in areas with low-quality tap water and who prefer not to use filtered water. However, as distilled water does not contain any minerals, it can leach essential minerals from your Monstera, causing a deficiency in nutrients and restricting its growth.

Identifying Over-Watering Symptoms

• Yellowing leaves: The first and most common sign of over-watering is yellowing leaves. If your plant’s leaves are starting to turn yellow from the bottom up, it’s likely that the roots are staying too wet. Other symptoms may include limp or mushy leaves and a foul smell in the soil. To fix this issue, you’ll need to let the soil dry and possibly repot your plant in fresh soil. Be sure to remove any rotted roots before replanting.

• Root rot again: Root rot is a serious condition caused by over-watering and can quickly kill your plant. If you gently pull your plant from the soil, you may notice black or brown mushy roots. To save your plant, you’ll need to trim away any infected roots and repot them in a well-draining soil mix.

• Soil fungi: Over-watering can also lead to the growth of fungi in the soil, which can harm your plant and spread disease. Fungal growth may appear as white, green, or black patches in the soil or on leaves. To treat fungal growth, remove any affected soil and leaves, then treat your plant with a fungicide.

• It might not be too late: If you catch the symptoms of overwatered Monstera early on, it’s possible to save your plant. The first step is to stop watering it and let the soil dry out completely. You may need to remove any standing water from the drainage tray and move your plant to an area with better airflow. Once the soil has dried out, you can repot your plant in fresh soil and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

Recognizing Underwatered Monstera

• Brown crispy leaves: One of the most common symptoms of an underwatered Monstera is brown, crispy edges on its leaves. When plants don't receive enough water, their leaves will begin to dry out, starting from the edges and moving inward. If you notice this happening to your Monstera, it's important to water it thoroughly to bring it back to health.

• Brown spots: In addition to brown, crispy edges, a thirsty Monstera may also develop brown spots on its leaves. These spots can be caused by a lack of water, various environmental factors or be a sign of more serious problems, so it's important to address them as soon as possible.

• Drooping leaves: Another sign of an underwatered Monstera is drooping leaves. When plants don't receive enough water, their leaves will start to wilt in an attempt to conserve moisture. If your Monstera is wilting, it's time to give it a good watering and move it to a spot with more humidity.

• Yellow curling leaves: Finally, an underwatered Monstera may also develop yellow or curling leaves. This is a sign that the plant is experiencing stress and is likely not getting the nutrients it needs. In addition to watering, it's important to make sure that your Monstera is receiving enough sunlight and nutrients, as these factors can also contribute to yellowing leaves.

• Soil check: If the soil around your Monstera is dry and crumbly, it's a good indication that your plant needs more water. It's important to make sure that the soil is moist throughout the pot, not just on the surface, as this will help ensure that your Monstera is getting the hydration it needs to thrive.

Monstera Aerial Roots - What to Do

• Monsteras need them: Aerial roots are roots that grow above the soil's surface. They typically grow in moist environments like tropical rainforests to help anchor and support the plant. In the case of Monstera Deliciosa, the aerial roots, which appear as long, slimy-looking tendrils, are not necessary for the plant’s survival as they can survive with only their soil-based roots. Instead, they serve as an additional support system and an essential food source for the plant.

• Keep the roots (and your Monstera) happy: Unlike soil-based roots, aerial roots do not require watering or soil. They source their moisture and nutrients from the surrounding air, which is why they appear slimy and can grow exceptionally long. However, this doesn't mean that you should completely ignore them. To keep your plant happy and healthy, you can mist the aerial roots regularly with a spray bottle of water or keep a humidifier nearby to ensure that the air remains moist.

• Cut or not to cut: The big question: should you prune or cut the aerial roots? As a general rule, we recommend leaving the aerial roots alone unless they start to interfere with your Monstera's growth or aesthetics. In such cases, you can cut the roots, but make sure you do it carefully with a sterilized pair of scissors or pruning shears.

• Be gentle: Pluck the aerial roots not too close to the stem, so it doesn't harm the plant. Also, don't cut all the air roots at once, leave at least half of the air roots intact. If you're unsure whether to prune the aerial roots, try tucking them back into the soil. In this way, the plant will develop soil roots.

Conclusion

From the lush foliage of Monsteras to their unique aerial roots, this beautiful plant is a feast for the eyes. Knowing when and how much to water your Monstera is an important part of keeping them healthy and strong. Following the fundamentals in this post about houseplant care – from understanding what kind of water to use to recognizing symptoms that indicate the plant needs more or less – makes all the difference in terms of success.

Don’t forget to pay close attention to soil, light, pot size, seasonality, and other considerations as well. If you can master those details along with efficient watering and nutrient needs, you’ll have a thriving Monstera!

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