Monstera plants, with their striking, fenestrated leaves, have become a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts. However, ensuring they thrive requires care of all sorts, including how often to water monstera plants. Proper watering is crucial for the health and vitality of your monstera, as either overwatering or underwatering can lead to possible death. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into how much and how often to water monstera, covering all the factors and techniques you need to know to keep your plant hydrated.
How Often to Water Monstera
Known for their unique, split leaves, monstera is a genus of tropical vine plants that thrive in humid environments with indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. However, it doesn’t mean monstera plants need plenty of water to survive.
As a general rule, water your monstera when the top inch of the soil feels dry. That often takes 1-2 weeks or so. If the top layer of soil is still noticeably damp, even after a week, you don’t need to water your plant. However, if the surface appears dry, check the moisture levels deeper in the soil before deciding to water.
It’s always important to note that water your plant based on the actual status over a regular routine. For example, monstera plants require more water during the growing season (spring and summer) and less during the dormant season (fall and winter). Indoor monsteras usually need less frequent watering than outdoor ones, as indoor conditions are more controlled and consistent.
How Much to Water the Monstera
Now you know when to water your monstera plant, the next question is how much to water it. For any houseplants, including monsteras, there isn’t a precise amount of water required each time.
The general advice is to water until excess water starts leaking from the drainage holes. You need to ensure that all parts of the soil are saturated, not just one small area but including the roots. If the soil is drier than usual or compacted, water may run off the soil and down the sides of the pot without ever reaching the roots.
Signs of Underwatering Monstera
What does a underwatering monstera plant look like? Typically, you’ll notice the following changes:
- Wilting Leaves: One of the earliest signs that your Monstera needs water is wilting leaves. When the leaves start to droop, it’s a clear indication that the plant is thirsty.
- Leaf Curling: When a Monstera doesn’t get enough water, its leaves may start to curl. Monstera leaves curling is a defense mechanism to reduce water loss.
- Brown, Crispy Edges: Brown, crispy edges on the leaves are a hallmark of a thirsty plant.
- Slow Growth: A Monstera that is not getting enough water may exhibit slow growth, as hydration is crucial for the plant’s overall health and development.
Signs of Overwatering Monstera
Similarly, your plants react to excessive watering:
- Yellowing Leaves: Yellowing leaves on monstera can be a sign of overwatering. If the soil is consistently wet and the leaves are turning yellow, you may be giving your Monstera too much water.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, a condition where the plant’s roots become mushy and start to decay. This is often accompanied by a foul odor.
- Moldy Soil: If you notice mold growing on the soil surface, it’s a sign that the soil is too wet and not drying out properly between waterings.
Monstera Watering Techniques
In this section, get to know effective watering methods to ensure your plant gets the right amount of water without the risk of over or underwatering.
- Top Watering: Top watering involves pouring water directly onto the soil surface until it runs out of the drainage holes. This ensures the entire root system gets hydrated.
- Bottom Watering: Bottom watering involves placing the pot in a tray of water, allowing the soil to soak up moisture from the bottom. This can help prevent overwatering and promote deeper root growth.
- Misting: Misting the leaves can help increase humidity and provide some hydration, but it should not replace necessary full watering.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much and how often to water your monstera can make all the difference in its growth and overall well-being. By following the guidelines and techniques discussed, such as watering when the top inch of soil is dry, adjusting for seasonal changes, and ensuring even soil saturation, you can keep your monstera thriving. Meanwhile, don’t forget to watch for signs of underwatering and overwatering.