8 Hacks for Growing a Thriving Monstera Plant

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Monsteras are beloved houseplants known for their stunning, large leaves and easygoing care nature. If you want your Monstera to grow healthy and lush, it’s important to give it the right care. From providing the right light to training those iconic aerial roots, a few simple tricks can make a big difference in helping your plant thrive.

Here are eight easy hacks to ensure your Monstera becomes a statement piece in your home.

1. Choose the Right Soil Mix

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Monsteras need the right soil mix to truly thrive. A well-draining soil is key to keeping the roots healthy and happy. You can make a great mix by combining potting soil, perlite, and bark. This blend ensures proper airflow to the roots while still retaining some moisture, which Monsteras love. Avoid heavy soils that trap too much water, as this can lead to root rot and other problems. The goal is to create a mix that mimics the plant's natural environment.

In the wild, Monsteras grow in loose, rich soil that allows their roots to spread out. With the right soil, you'll be setting your Monstera up for success from the start.

2. Provide Indirect, Bright Light

a monstera flower in gray pot on the windowsill
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Monsteras love light, but not direct sunlight. Bright, indirect light is perfect for these tropical beauties. Placing your plant near a window that gets filtered sunlight is ideal. If your Monstera gets too much direct sunlight, the leaves may start to burn or develop yellow spots, which isn't what you want. If your space doesn't have a lot of natural light, Monsteras can adapt to lower light conditions, but they will grow more slowly.

A little extra attention to lighting can make all the difference in helping your Monstera grow big and lush.

3. Maintain Proper Humidity Levels

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Monsteras are native to the tropical rainforests, so they love a bit of humidity. Ideally, they thrive in an environment with humidity levels between 50-60%. You can achieve this by using a humidifier or placing your plant near other plants to create a more humid microclimate. Even a simple tray of water near the plant can help raise the humidity a bit. In dry environments, the leaves can develop brown, crispy edges, which means they need more moisture in the air. Regularly misting the leaves can also help, but be careful not to overdo it, as too much moisture can lead to fungal issues.

4. Water Deeply, but Infrequently

Hand holding a yellow watering can, watering a monstera in a pot (Shuttesrtock 2505933633 )
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Watering your Monstera correctly is key to its health. Monsteras prefer a deep watering followed by a period of dryness. Let the top two to three inches of soil dry out before watering again. This prevents overwatering, which can cause root rot—a common problem for Monsteras. When you water, make sure you water thoroughly until it starts to drain from the bottom of the pot.

This way, you know that the entire root system is getting a good drink. It's always better to underwater than overwater, as these plants can tolerate a bit of dryness more than being soggy.

5. Train the Aerial Roots

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Monsteras produce aerial roots, which they use in their natural habitat to climb and gather nutrients. These roots can help your plant grow taller and more stable if you train them properly. You can guide the aerial roots towards a support, like a moss pole or trellis, to help the plant grow upwards. If you don’t want the aerial roots to take over, you can trim them back without harming the plant.

Training the roots to climb also helps the plant look tidier and encourages it to grow in a more controlled way, making it a stunning feature in your home.

6. Prune Regularly for Healthy Growth

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Pruning is an important part of Monstera care. It helps control the size of the plant and encourages new growth. By cutting back any dead or yellowing leaves, you allow the plant to focus its energy on healthier parts. Regular pruning also prevents the plant from becoming too leggy or overgrown. When you prune, make sure to use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Always cut just above a node to encourage new branches.

7. Use a Moss Pole for Support

Monstera monkey mask established on the moss pole
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Monsteras are natural climbers, and a moss pole can help support their growth. Moss poles provide a surface for aerial roots to latch onto, which allows the plant to grow taller and stronger. It also helps mimic the Monstera’s natural environment, where it climbs trees in the wild. To use a moss pole, gently tie the plant’s stems to the pole using plant ties or soft string. Over time, the aerial roots will start to attach themselves to the moss, and you can remove the ties.

8. Fertilize During the Growing Season

Monstera borsigiana albo variegated in a black pot for growing seedlings. Garden tools, cacti and paper bags and scattered soil on the windowsill. (Shutterstock 2071318625)
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Monsteras benefit from extra nutrition during their growing season, which is typically spring and summer. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month to keep your plant healthy and promote new growth. Make sure not to over-fertilize, as too much can burn the roots and damage the plant. Always dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to be safe. Feeding your Monstera during the growing season will ensure it has all the nutrients it needs to develop those gorgeous, iconic leaves.

Wrapping Up: Your Monstera Care Journey

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Caring for a Monstera can be incredibly rewarding, and with these simple hacks, you'll have a thriving plant in no time. From choosing the right soil to training aerial roots, each step helps your Monstera feel more at home. Remember, a little patience and attention go a long way with these beautiful plants. By following these tips, your Monstera will not only grow but will also become a showpiece in your home. Enjoy the process and watch as your plant grows lush, fenestrated leaves that bring a bit of the jungle indoors.

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