Monstera Plant Care

Big tropical leaves. Easy care. Major statement plant.

Monstera are loved for their large, glossy leaves and beautiful natural splits. They make a bold statement indoors and are fairly easy to care for with the right light, watering routine, and room to grow.

Monstera Care at a Glance

Light: Bright, indirect light

Water: Water when the top few inches of soil feel dry

Humidity: Average to high humidity

Soil: Chunky, well-draining mix

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Pet Safe: No — toxic if eaten

Light

Monstera do best in bright, indirect light. Place your plant near a window where it receives plenty of natural light, but avoid harsh direct afternoon sun, which can burn the leaves.

Too little light can cause slower growth, smaller leaves, and fewer natural splits.

Water

Water your Monstera when the top few inches of soil feel dry. Give it a deep watering until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then empty any excess water from the saucer.

Monstera like moisture, but they do not like sitting in soggy soil.

Signs of too much water:

Yellow leaves, mushy stems, or soil that stays wet for too long.

Signs of not enough water:

Drooping leaves, crispy edges, or soil that is completely dry.

Soil & Potting

Use a chunky, well-draining soil mix. Monstera likes soil that holds a little moisture while still allowing air to reach the roots.

A good mix may include indoor potting soil, orchid bark, perlite, coco coir, or other airy ingredients.

Always use a pot with drainage holes.

Humidity & Temperature

Monstera enjoys warm indoor temperatures and average to higher humidity.

Keep your plant away from cold drafts, heat vents, and air conditioning blowing directly on the leaves.

Brown, crispy edges can sometimes mean the plant needs more humidity or a more consistent watering routine.

Support

Monstera are natural climbers. As they grow, they may benefit from a moss pole, a coco pole, a trellis, or a plant stake.

Adding support helps the plant grow upright and can encourage larger, more mature leaves over time.

Fertilizer

Feed your Monstera during the growing season, usually spring through early fall, with a balanced houseplant fertilizer.

Fertilize less often, or pause entirely, during the winter when growth naturally slows.

Cleaning & Pruning

Wipe the leaves with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and help the plant absorb light.

Trim away yellow, damaged, or unwanted leaves with clean scissors or pruners.

Pet Safety

Monstera are not pet safe if eaten. They can be toxic to cats and dogs and may cause mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting, or trouble swallowing.

Keep this plant away from curious pets and small children.

The Garden Plant Co. Tip

Monstera usually struggles most from too much water and not enough light. Give your Monstera a bright spot, let the soil dry slightly between waterings, and use a chunky soil mix.

When in doubt, check the soil before watering.