Monstera plants, which are also called Swiss Cheese Plants, are very popular houseplants. They have big, heart-shaped leaves that have natural holes and splits in them. If you take good care of these tropical beauties, they can get up to 8 feet tall!
Your Monstera will eventually outgrow its current pot as it grows older and its roots spread out. Moving the plant to a bigger pot is necessary to make room for new growth. But when is the best time to move your Monstera to a new pot?
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
When you repot your Monstera, you get a bigger pot and new soil, which gives the roots more room to spread out. This enables better absorption of nutrients and water.
Your Monstera will not grow as much if it stays in a small, crowded pot. 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 look droopy after being repotted because it is struggling to get used to its new home, is stressed from being moved, or can’t absorb water from the soil because it is too dark or too cold.
Here are some quick solutions to fix your droopy Monstera post repotting:
- Shift it to a spot with bright, indirect light. The best place for your plant is where it was before.
- If the top two to three inches of soil feel dry, water it well.
- Feed the plant no fertilizer for at least 6 to 8 weeks after moving it to a new pot.
- To get more energy to the healthy roots, make sure you cut off any roots that are dead, sick, or damaged.
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 has roots that are stuck together or the soil is very dry, you may need to repot it. If this is the case, we suggest doing it 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?
You can repot your monstera plant to keep it healthy and growing strong or to help a plant that is too big for its pot get back on its feet. 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. As you put the plant in the new pot, make sure it sits just a little deeper than it did before.
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.