Most houseplants thrive in a large enough pot where their roots have space for growth. And Monsteras are no exception. These beautiful and exotic plants don’t like to be rootbound, which can stunt their growth and cause leaf issues, due to poor absorption of nutrients. Hence, it’s important not to delay repotting your Monstera plant. If you notice it struggles and doesn’t look its best, it’s time to move your green companion into a bigger planter to help it thrive
This guide will help you learn how to repot Monstera in a few steps and when to complete the task. We’ll also share additional post-repotting care tips to prevent transplant shock and other problems with your Swiss Cheese Plant.
Monstera plants are evergreen climbers with a striking appearance. They boast large, glossy leaves that develop unique, natural holes or slits as they mature. The fenestrated foliage is their most distinct feature, making them some of the most popular houseplants among plant enthusiasts worldwide. Also known as Swiss Cheese plants, these low-maintenance exotic beauties originate from Central and South America. They thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer well-draining soil. Regular watering is necessary, but they dont like to be waterlogged.
With the right care, Monstera plants can live for many years, enhancing any room with their lush foliage and unique shape.
Monstera plants, also known as Swiss Cheese Plants, are extremely popular houseplants known for their large, heart-shaped leaves with natural holes and splits With proper care, these tropical beauties can grow quite large, even up to 8 feet tall!
As your Monstera matures and its root system expands, it will eventually outgrow its current pot. Repotting into a larger container is crucial to allow adequate room for new growth. But when exactly is the best time to repot your Monstera?
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover:
- Why repotting is important for Monsteras
- How to identify signs your plant needs repotting
- The optimal season and frequency for repotting
- Step-by-step instructions to repot your Monstera
- Aftercare tips to prevent transplant shock
Why Repotting is Essential for Monstera Health
Repotting provides a larger pot and fresh soil, allowing more space for your Monstera’s roots to spread out. This enables better absorption of nutrients and water.
Remaining in a small, cramped pot will stunt your Monstera’s growth. It causes a range of problems like:
- Drooping or yellowing leaves
- Slow growth
- Leaf damage and crispy brown tips
- Difficulty absorbing water, causing leaves to dry out
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Root rot due to inadequate drainage
By repotting on time you can avoid these issues and keep your plant thriving!
5 Signs Your Monstera Needs Repotting
Your plant will display signs when it’s time for a larger pot. Watch out for:
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Roots growing out of drainage holes: This clearly indicates overcrowded roots searching for space.
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Slowed growth: Despite proper care, if growth stalls, lack of space could be the culprit.
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Faster drying soil: Densely packed roots prevent water retention, causing soil to dry out quicker.
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Yellow leaves: Limited root space inhibits water uptake, leading to dehydration.
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It’s been 2-3 years since repotting: Monsteras typically need repotting every few years.
When is the Best Time to Repot a Monstera?
Early spring, just as temperatures start rising, is ideal for repotting your Monstera. The active growing period ahead allows the plant to recover faster from repotting stress.
Avoid repotting in winter when the plant is dormant. Also, limit repotting during hot summer months, as heat stress can exacerbate transplant shock.
As a general rule, aim to repot young Monsteras annually and mature plants every 2-3 years. The time between repotting depends on the plant’s age and growth rate.
Step-by-Step Guide to Repotting a Monstera
Follow these steps to successfully repot your Monstera:
Choose a Slightly Larger Pot
Select a pot 2-4 inches wider than the current container to prevent overpotting. For optimal drainage, use porous terracotta pots.
Add Fresh Potting Mix
Use a well-draining, aerated soil mix, like equal parts potting soil, perlite, and coconut coir.
Remove the Plant from Current Pot
Turn pot on its side and gently slide out the plant. Loosen tight roots with your fingers or a knife.
Prune Away Dead Roots
Trim off any dead, rotten, or damaged roots with sterilized shears to promote healthy growth.
Place Plant in New Pot
Position the Monstera in the prepared larger pot and fill gaps with potting mix. Leave 1 inch space between soil and pot rim.
Water Thoroughly
Water well to settle soil and remove air pockets. This also rehydrates roots after repotting.
Maintain Consistent Conditions
Keep your plant in the same spot it’s accustomed to and stick to your regular watering schedule to prevent shock.
Aftercare Tips to Prevent Transplant Shock
Monsteras are sensitive to change. Follow these tips to help your plant smoothly transition and recover after repotting:
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Keep the Monstera in its original spot with the same light exposure.
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Hold off fertilizing for 6-8 weeks until new roots establish.
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Check soil moisture often and water when the top few inches become dry.
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Look out for signs of shock like drooping or yellowing leaves and treat accordingly.
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Allow 1-2 months for the Monstera to adjust in the new pot before resuming normal care.
Timely repotting is vital for the health and growth of your Monstera plant. Repot in early spring every 2-3 years, when clear indicators arise, into a slightly larger pot. Avoid shocking the plant by minimally disturbing the roots and maintaining stable conditions after transplanting. With this proper care, your Monstera will flourish in its new spacious home!
Why Is My Monstera Droopy After Repotting?
Your Monstera plant may appear droopy after repotting, due to transplant stress, root shock, struggle to adjust to its new home, inability to absorb water from the soil, lack of sufficient light, and low-temperature conditions.
Here are some quick solutions to fix your droopy Monstera post repotting:
- Shift it to a spot with bright, indirect light. Ideally, you should put your plant in the same place as before.
- Water thoroughly if the top 2-3 inches of the soil feels dry.
- Dont feed any fertilizer to the plant for at least 6-8 weeks after repotting.
- Make sure you trim dead, diseased, or damaged roots to direct more energy to the healthy roots.
Loosen the Roots and Remove the Old Soil
Once your Monstera is out, examine its roots. A common sign of a root-bound plant is when the roots appear curled up and cramped. Shake the root ball to loosen the roots, and gently use your fingers to remove some of the old soil. Trim any damaged roots that appear soft and dark using a pair of shears. This step is important, as it helps prevent cross-contamination and the spread of disease to healthy roots.
How to Repot Monstera Deliciosa. IT’S EASY!
FAQ
How do I know when my Monstera needs repotting?
- Choose a new pot: Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, providing more room for root growth.
- Prepare the new soil: Use a well-draining soil mix, such as a blend of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark.
- Gently remove the plant from its old pot: Be careful not to damage the roots.
- Remove old soil: Gently remove any old soil from the roots.
- Place the plant in the new pot: Fill the new pot with soil and position the plant in the center.
- Water thoroughly: Water the plant thoroughly after repotting to settle the soil and hydrate the roots.
What season is best to repot Monstera?
Spring is the prime time for repotting your Monstera, as the plant kicks into its growth spurt.
Is it okay to repot Monstera in winter?
‘However, if your Monstera is root-bound or the soil is severely depleted, repotting may be necessary, in which case we recommend repotting in late winter. ‘Dec 2, 2024
Do monsteras like small or big pots?
Pot size to use Monstera adansoniis can grow slightly tight in their pots but will eventually do and grow better with a pot size that is larger. You can go up 1 pot size if you’d like; for instance from a 6” pot to an 8”.
When should I repot a Monstera?
The plant grows differently depending on the timing. Following these simple steps ensures that the plant gets the best care possible: Spring offers the ideal moment for repotting a Monstera. The winter cold disappears as the days get longer, the temperature rises, and the plant starts to wake up.
Can You repot a Monstera plant?
Repotting your monstera plant can keep a healthy plant thriving or help a pot-bound or overgrown plant bounce back. This simple task is easy with some basic gardening gear and simple steps. Note that you may need someone to help you lift and maneuver a large plant as you work. Here’s how to repot your monstera plant.
Why does Monstera need repotting?
The following are essential reasons why this plant needs repotting: Monstera plants grow larger over time, and their roots also get bigger. Sometimes, the roots become too big for the pot, stopping the plant from growing well. Using a bigger pot gives the roots more space, which helps the plant stay healthy and continue to grow strong.
Should I water my Monstera after repotting?
You should water your Monstera after repotting as these plants are prone to stress from repotting and so watering your Monstera thoroughly can reduce this stress. This gives the roots plenty of moisture and ensures the plant will stay hydrated as it adjusts to the change.
How do I repot my Monstera?
Follow the steps below to successfully repot your monstera: Choose your new container. Place a support stake or pole if required. Carefully remove your plant from its previous pot. Place the plant into the new container, so that it is sitting just slightly deeper than it was previously.
When should I transplant a Monstera plant?
However, if possible, it’s best to wait to transplant a Monstera plant in early spring, just before its burst of new growth. That is, unless there’s an immediate issue like one of those just mentioned, it is best to hold off on repotting during the fall and winter when the Monstera is dormant.