The Ultimate Monstera Care Guide: How to Grow Happy, Thriving Monsteras Indoors
There’s something truly special about growing a Monstera. Whether it’s the iconic split leaves of a mature Monstera deliciosa, the delicate, hole-filled foliage of an adansonii, or the marbled creamy variegation of a Thai Constellation, these tropical beauties bring sculptural charm and jungle vibes to any indoor space. And that’s just the beginning — there are so many stunning varieties I haven’t even touched on in this guide, like the bold Monstera Peru, the strikingly variegated Monstera Albo, or the Monstera Obliqua. In fact, there are over 50 different types of Monstera found around the world, each with its own unique personality!
Monsteras are native to the rainforests of Central and South America, where they grow beneath the forest canopy and climb up trees to reach filtered sunlight. They’re considered epiphytes, which means they naturally grow on other surfaces rather than in the soil.
In the wild, their aerial roots attach to tree trunks, supporting the plant as it climbs higher. Indoors, they still follow those same instincts — they send out long roots into the air, searching for something to anchor onto. Providing support not only keeps your Monstera upright but also encourages larger, more mature leaves over time.
Why Use a Moss Pole For a Monstera?
One of the best ways to support your Monstera’s growth indoors is
with a moss pole. A moss pole replicates the way these plants climb in nature and gives them a sense of direction. As your Monstera grows, its aerial roots will latch onto the pole, helping it grow taller and more stable.
Over time, this can lead to bigger leaves with deeper fenestrations — those classic splits and holes we all love. You can also use other types of support, like coir poles or even a trellis, but keeping the pole slightly damp gives the roots something to grip onto.
If you’re growing a Monstera like adansonii, you might notice it starts as a trailing vine — but give it a moss pole, and it’ll begin to climb, just like in the rainforest.
The Best Lighting Conditions for a Monstera
Monsteras prefer bright, indirect light. In the wild, they grow under the tree canopy, so they're used to dappled sunlight rather than harsh direct rays. A spot near a window with filtered light or behind a sheer curtain works beautifully.
Direct sun, especially in the summer, can scorch the leaves — particularly for variegated types like the Thai Constellation, which have less chlorophyll in their pale patches and are more sensitive to light levels. However, they do need enough brightness to grow well and maintain their variegation, so aim for a balance of strong but indirect light.
How to Water a Monstera the Right Way
When it comes to watering, Monsteras like to dry out slightly between drinks. The top few centimetres of soil should feel dry before you water again. In the warmer months, you may find your plant needs watering weekly, while in winter, this can stretch to every two or three weeks. It’s always better to check the soil before watering rather than sticking to a set schedule. Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially if the potting mix doesn’t drain well.
A chunky, airy mix is ideal — something that holds moisture but allows excess water to drain freely. A blend of houseplant compost, orchid bark, perlite, and a little coco coir or worm castings makes a great base for healthy root growth.
Humidity and Temperature Tips for Monsteras
As tropical plants, Monsteras do appreciate a bit of extra humidity — though they’re generally tolerant of average UK indoor levels. If your home is particularly dry, especially in the winter when heating is on, a humidifier can make a real difference.
Look for signs like crispy edges or slowed growth, which may suggest the
air is a bit too dry.
Temperature-wise, Monsteras like things warm and stable. Keep them away from cold draughts and sudden temperature drops, and aim for a steady range between 18–27°C. Avoid placing them near radiators, as dry, hot air can stress the plant.
How to Propagate a Monstera at Home
One of the best things about Monsteras is how easy they are to propagate. If your plant is getting leggy, or you want to grow a new one to share or keep, you can take a stem cutting just below a node — ideally one with an aerial root.
Nodes are the little bumps on the stem where new leaves and roots grow.
Pop the cutting into water, making sure the node is submerged but the leaf stays above the waterline.
Within a few weeks, you should start to see roots forming. Once they’re a few centimetres long, you can pot the cutting into soil and treat it like a mature plant. It’s a simple and rewarding way to multiply your plant collection!
Growth Habits: What to Expect as Your Monstera Matures
Monsteras are fast growers in the right conditions, especially during spring and summer. Young Monstera deliciosa plants often start with small, heart-shaped leaves that eventually develop deep splits and holes as they mature. Adansonii, often called the “Swiss cheese vine,” has naturally perforated leaves from an early stage and will climb or trail depending on the support you give it.
Variegated types like Thai Constellation are generally slower growing and more sensitive, but no less rewarding.
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Split leaves — called fenestrations — usually appear as your Monstera matures. If your plant is still young or not getting enough light, the leaves will likely stay solid. Give it time and make sure it’s in a bright spot with indirect sunlight. You can also try adding a moss pole to encourage stronger, upward growth, which can help trigger those signature splits.
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Monsteras like their soil to dry out slightly between waterings. A good rule is to check the top couple of inches of soil with your finger — if it feels dry, it’s time to water. This often works out to around once a week, but it can vary depending on the season and your home environment. Always check the soil before watering to avoid overdoing it.
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Monsteras aren't pet-friendly, unfortunately. If nibbled, they can irritate your pet’s mouth or stomach due to compounds inside the leaves. It’s best to keep your Monstera up high or out of reach if you’ve got curious cats or dogs.
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You can absolutely grow a Monstera without a pole, but it’ll likely start sprawling sideways as it looks for support. Adding a moss pole gives it something to climb, helping the plant grow more upright and produce those large, dramatic leaves people love. It’s not essential, but it definitely helps if you want that wild, jungle look indoors.
