Monstera plants, whose full name are Monstera Deliciosa, are actually pretty easy to take care of.
They reign from southern Mexico and Panama, and because of the holes they create their leaves as they mature, they are often referred to as Philodendron Split Leaf or the Swiss Cheese Plant.
Monstera leaf holes are a byproduct of originating in the rainforest, where vegetation above blocks sunlight. So the holes are to allow sunlight to get to the bottom leaves as well as the top.
The baby monstera plant, also known as Monstera deliciosa, is a popular houseplant admired for its unique, split leaves and tropical vibe. Though relatively easy to care for, the baby monstera requires attention to certain aspects like water, light, and soil needs for optimal growth. This comprehensive care guide provides helpful tips and tricks for keeping your baby monstera healthy and thriving indoors.
Light Requirements
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Baby monstera thrives in bright, indirect sunlight
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Direct sun can scorch the leaves so place it near an east or west facing window.
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If natural light is limited, supplement with fluorescent or LED grow lights
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Rotate the plant occasionally so all sides get equal light exposure.
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Low light will cause sparse, small leaves and leggy growth.
Watering Needs
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Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom when the top few inches of soil become dry.
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Always empty any water that collects in the saucer to prevent root rot.
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Drooping leaves or yellowing are signs of underwatering. Overwatering may cause leaves to turn yellow or brown.
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Allow the soil to partially dry out between waterings, about 1-2 weeks in summer. Water less frequently in winter.
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Mist leaves occasionally to increase humidity, but avoid getting water on the leaves.
Soil Requirements
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Use a well-draining potting mix amended with perlite for aeration.
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Repot annually in spring into a pot one size larger. Add fresh soil and trim any dead roots.
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Soil should be fertile and rich in organic matter but not stay soggy.
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If repotting, gently loosen root ball but don’t disturb roots too much.
Temperature and Humidity
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Ideal temperature range is 65°F to 80°F. Avoid drafty areas.
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Average room humidity is fine. Increase by misting daily or using a humidifier.
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Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and increase moisture.
Fertilizer
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Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
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Suspend fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.
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Avoid overfertilizing, which can burn roots. Rinse soil every few months to prevent buildup.
Supporting and Pruning
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Provide a moss pole or trellis for support as stems lengthen. Tie stems loosely.
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Prune off any dead or damaged leaves and stems to improve appearance.
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Pinch back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation
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Propagate from stem cuttings in spring or summer for an easy way to get new plants.
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Take a cutting with a few leaves and node, dip in rooting hormone, and plant in moist soil.
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Keep the soil consistently damp until new growth emerges in a few weeks.
Common Problems
Drooping leaves – Can indicate under-watering. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom.
Yellow leaves – Usually a sign of overwatering. Allow soil to dry out before watering again.
Leaf spots or brown edges – May be due to low humidity. Mist leaves daily and remove any infected leaves.
Leggy growth – Means insufficient sunlight. Rotate plant and prune to encourage fuller growth.
Root rot – Caused by overly damp soil. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
Stages of Growth
The baby monstera goes through distinct growth phases as it matures into the iconic split-leaf plant. Being aware of these stages helps provide proper care.
Germination Stage
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This is when the seed first sprouts roots and leaves.
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Keep soil moist and give filtered light. Growth is slow at first.
Seedling Stage
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Plant is actively growing but leaves remain small and heart-shaped without splits.
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Gradually increase light and fertilizer. Water when top inch of soil is dry.
Juvenile Stage
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Larger, more fenestrated leaves emerge. Stems lengthen rapidly in this stage.
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Transition to bright, indirect light. Stake or trellis vines for support.
Mature Stage
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Plant reaches maximum size with large, heavily lobed leaves up to 3 feet long.
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Provide ample sunlight and humidity. Fertilize regularly in growing season.
Display Tips
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Show off the monstera’s natural form by mounting it on a trellis or piece of driftwood.
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Contrast the foliage with lighter colored planters like white ceramic or woven baskets.
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Prune and train vines to create a living wall divider or art piece.
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Let it trail from high shelves to draw the eye up.
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Group other tropical plants like philodendrons and ferns around the monstera.
FAQs
How big do baby monstera plants get?
Baby monstera typically reach 1-2 feet in the first year. Mature plants can grow up to 10 feet tall and 3 feet wide given proper care over several years.
How often to fertilize a baby monstera plant?
Fertilize baby monsteras monthly at half strength during spring and summer. They are actively growing and need nutrients.
What causes brown leaf tips on a baby monstera?
Brown leaf tips are commonly caused by dry air or fertilizer buildup. Increase humidity through misting and flush soil occasionally.
Why is my baby monstera not growing?
Lack of growth usually indicates insufficient light. Rotate the plant to give all sides equal light exposure. Try a grow light if natural light is low.
How to make a baby monstera grow faster?
Faster growth can be encouraged by providing ample indirect sunlight, weekly fertilizing at half strength, adequate water and humidity, and repotting annually.
Final Thoughts
Caring for a baby monstera plant is relatively simple when you understand its preferences for bright, indirect light, frequent but careful watering, humid conditions, and proper soil. Providing support as stems lengthen and increase light exposure as it matures will keep your monstera healthy. Be sure to allow the soil to partially dry out between waterings and watch for signs of underwatering or overwatering. With the proper care, your baby monstera will flourish into an incredible living sculpture. Follow these tips and enjoy watching your plant grow into a gorgeous, thriving specimen.
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Is Monstera a good indoor plant?
Yes. Monstera thrive best in indirect light, in warm environments. Monstera will not survive in cold outdoor areas.
How Often Should I Water Monstera Plants?
Monstera like regular watering. Monsteras prefer slightly moist soil and generally like to dry out just a bit between waterings.
They are epiphytes with aerial roots (a plant that grows on another plant in its natural habitat), so they don’t tolerate soggy soil. For a rule of thumb, once the top 2 to 4 inches of the soil are dry, your Monstera could use some watering.
Since my Monstera, Fran, is in a large pot, I give her quite a bit of water once a week in the growing season, which is spring through early fall, and then I taper off quite a bit in the winter.
A long time ago, I decided I would regularly water all of my houseplants once a week, choosing Saturday as the day I’d remember to do it most consistently, and I have stuck to that plan for many years.
I adjust the amount of water I give each plant based on what the soil feels like when I check it, as well as the type of plant itself, knowing some plants like more water, some like less.
If the soil feels soggy at all, I skip watering that week. By planning to water every plant in the house weekly, I never forget about one, and have some dedicated time each week to check them for signs of stress or pests, dust them off, or prune them if needed.