How to water a Monstera
Monstera deliciosa
Quick answer
Water Monstera deliciosa thoroughly, then wait until roughly the top quarter to one-third of the mix has dried.

Toxic to pets
How to water a Monstera
- 01
When to water
Water thoroughly, then wait until roughly the top quarter to one-third of the growing medium has dried before watering again. Pot size, root fill, season, and room airflow change how quickly it dries.
Expect slower drying and growth in lower-light winter conditions, and lengthen the interval only after checking the medium. The dry-down cue remains more reliable than a seasonal calendar.
- 02
How to water thoroughly
Apply enough water to wet the medium throughout and let excess drain away. Use the surface and upper medium as the check instead of a fixed weekly calendar.
Keep the pot well drained and do not leave it standing in water. Aim for a mix that drains well and dries from the top between waterings. Do not swing the other way and let an established Monstera dry out completely.
- 03
Signs of too much or too little water
Soil that stays wet, yellowing leaves and soft roots are warning signs of too much water or poor drainage, while a completely dry mix stresses the leaves. Check the mix and the roots before you change the routine.
All Monstera guides
Keep reading
Sources3 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineTaxonomy · accepted name · classification
- North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant ToolboxModerate brightness · warm temperature · humidity · top-quarter to one-third dry-down · support · spring repotting · indoor size
- Royal Horticultural SocietyPartial shade · moist but well-drained · H1B · peat-free loam compost · bright indirect light · monthly feeding · pests · Indoor temperature · humidity · indirect light · arum safety context · size and cultivar distinctions
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