How to prune Monstera deliciosa

Prune an overlong Monstera deliciosa vine when it no longer fits its room or support. Find the node where a leaf or bud joins the stem, then make one targeted cut at that point.

Plant covered

Monstera deliciosaSwiss cheese plantIndoor container guide

Find the node before you cut

Choose the long stem or leaf-bearing growth that has moved beyond its indoor support. Do not remove healthy leaves without a clear size or shape purpose.

An aerial root is not automatically a pruning target. Start with the growth that is creating the actual room or support problem.

Use pruning to shorten an oversized vine or restore a manageable shape around its support.

Do not use a shaping cut as symptom treatment. Yellowing, drooping, or spots require their own inspection first.

Prune for room and support

A simple trim can be made when needed, but spring or summer active growth is the preferred period for shaping.

No exact indoor month applies to every room. Delay optional shaping when the plant is stressed or growth has slowed.

Make one clean cut

  1. Find the node where a leaf or bud attaches to the stem. Mark the cut before you pick up the tool.
  2. Make one clean targeted cut, then secure the remaining vine to stable support. A node-bearing cut end can be used in the propagation guide.

Support the remaining vine

Return the plant to stable warm conditions with bright indirect light and keep the remaining stems supported.

Continue the normal watering routine and wait for new growth before making another cut.

Know what pruning cannot do

How this guide was checked
  • [1] Royal Horticultural SocietyHow to Grow > Cultivation; Pruning; Suggested planting locations
  • [2] Royal Horticultural SocietyWhat are Swiss cheese plants?; Support; Pruning
  • [3] eXtension Ask ExtensionAnswer; Pruning and shaping
  • [4] Penn State ExtensionVegetative propagation; Cuttings