Monsteras are beautiful, tropical plants that can bring life into a home. They’re popular for their leaves, which can grow up to 2 feet long and have a deep green color and waxy finish.
If you want your plant to be a showstopper, it’s important to learn how to encourage new growth in Monstera. Fortunately, it’s not difficult to do.
Read on to learn how to encourage new growth in Monstera.
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How do you encourage new growth in Monstera?
Your Monstera will grow quickly if you provide it with plenty of indirect sunlight and an adequate amount of water. Regular fertilizer and staking your Monstera to provide support your plant can also help. This combination creates the ideal environment for new growth.
There are plenty of other ways to keep your Monstera plant happy, healthy and growing. Here are our top tips for speeding up growth:
1. Fertilize your plant regularly
Fertilizing your Monstera provides it with the nutrients they need to grow. Look for a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and phosphorus. These two nutrients are essential for new growth.
An all-purpose fertilizer will work fine – just ensure that it’s a 20-20-20 fertilizer or as close to that as you can get. It’s also important to make sure not to overfertilize your plant. Too much fertilizer can actually damage the roots and lead to slower growth.
Best fertilizer for Monsteras
Jack’s Classic 20-20-20 All Purpose Fertilizer
A great fertilizer with the perfect balance for your Monstera. Simply dissolve in water and feed your plant to watch it thrive.
2. Water your Monstera deeply without drowning the roots
Monsteras are epiphytes. Epiphytes are plants that grow on other plants or on objects like rocks or tree trunks. When Monstera grow in the wild, they get their nutrients from the air, rainwater, and debris that collects around the base of the plant.
When you water your Monstera, be sure to drench the soil and allow the water to drain out completely. You don’t want to drown the roots by watering too often or keeping the pot in standing water. Here are some ways you can help the soil to drain:
- Add perlite or pumice to the potting mix
- Choose a pot with drainage holes in the bottom
- Check the moisture level of your plant’s soil before watering
- Use a large saucer or tray to catch excess water
3. Stake your Monstera plant
As your plant grows, its leaves will become heavier and begin to droop. Staking your Monstera will help to support the leaves and prevent them from breaking. It will also help them reach more light, which will help them grow more rapidly.
You can use any type of stake, but we recommend using a moss pole because it’s strong and easy to work with. You can grab a moss pole at any gardening store or online (this one is great value).
To see how to attach your plant to a moss pole, check out our article on giving your Monstera a moss pole.
4. Provide plenty of humidity for your plant
The Monstera plant is a tropical plant. In its natural habitat, it receives lots of moisture from the air. You can provide humidity for your plant by misting it regularly or setting the pot on a tray of pebbles and water.
FYI: You can also use a humidifier to increase the humidity around your plant. I’ve used the AquaOasis Cool Mist Humidifier (check the latest price here) and can definitely recommend it.
Just be sure not to place the humidifier too close to the plant, as this can damage the leaves.
5. Clean your plant’s leaves
As your Monstera grows, its leaves will become covered in dust. This can prevent the plant from getting the light it needs to grow and from breathing properly. Use a soft cloth or brush to clean your Monstera’s leaves regularly.
Make sure to do this gently so you don’t damage the leaves. Once a week to every other week is usually sufficient.
6. Prune your plant to encourage new growth
It’s important to prune your Monstera plant to encourage new growth. Pruning helps the plant to focus its energy on creating new leaves and stems – after all, your Monstera leaves will grow back, even if you cut them off. It also prevents the plant from becoming too leggy.
Start by cutting off any yellow or brown leaves on your Monstera. You can also remove any leaves that are damaged or diseased. You can also start a new Monstera with a new leaf. Simply cut off healthy leaves to use them as clippings to propagate new plants.
Be sure to use a sharp, clean knife or pair of scissors when you prune your plant. This will help to prevent infection and disease. Also keep in mind that it’s best to prune your plant in the spring or summer when it’s actively growing. Avoid pruning in the fall or winter, as this can damage the plant.
Find out more: The Step-by-Step Guide on How to Prune Your Monstera
7. Choose a non-variegated Monstera plant
Variegation is a condition that causes the leaves of a plant to have different colors. While variegated Monstera plants are seriously beautiful, they are actually more difficult to grow than non-variegated plants. This is because the plant has to put more energy into creating the different colors on the leaves.
This is why, if you want your Monstera to grow quickly, we recommend a green, non-variegated plant. These plants are easier to care for and will grow more rapidly – although I wouldn’t blame you for still being inclined towards picking a variegated Monstera for your home.
8. Repot your plant every two years
Your Monstera plant will need enough room to grow. Be sure to repot your Monstera every two years or so to prevent the roots from becoming pot-bound.
When you repot your plant, choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one (here are some more tips on choosing the best pot for your Monstera).
Add a couple of inches of fresh potting mix to the bottom of the new pot. Gently remove your plant from the old pot and place it in the new one.
Best soil for Monsteras
Specially designed soil for your Monstera. Light and well-draining, making it perfect for avoiding root rot, while being packed with just the right nutrients to keep your plant happy.
9. Provide plenty of indirect sunlight and warmth
Monsteras need indirect sunlight to grow. Look for the brightest spot in your home that doesn’t receive direct sunlight. If you can’t find a spot that gets indirect sunlight, you can use artificial lighting or sheer curtains to control the strength.
You’ll also need to provide warmth for your plant. Monsteras like temperatures that are between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep your plant away from drafts such as poorly-insulated windows or doors.
Find out more: How Much Light Does Your Monstera Need?
Where can I cut Monstera to encourage growth?
When pruning your Monstera, cut off dying or yellowing leaves by removing the leaf below the node. The node is the point on the stem where leaves are attached. This will become the Monstera’s new growth point. You can also use healthy Monstera leaves as clippings to propagate new plants.
Pruning is an important part of encouraging new growth in Monsteras. By pruning your plant, you are removing old and dying leaves, which allows the plant to focus its energy on creating new growth. Pruning also helps to prevent your Monstera from becoming too leggy, which means it will produce more stems than leaves.
If you’re wondering how often to prune your Monstera, the answer depends on how big and how old your plant is. A younger Monstera plant should be pruned about once every year. A larger plant may need to be pruned as frequently as once a month if it’s growing rapidly.
Cut the Monstera stem at a 45-degree angle just below the node. The node is the point on the stem where leaves are attached. This will help your Monstera grow new leaves much more quickly.
In order to avoid shocking your plant, avoid over-pruning by taking off too many leaves at once. It’s also important to use a sharp, clean knife or pair of scissors when you prune your Monstera. This will help to make the process cleaner, which is less stressful for your plant, and will also help to prevent infection and disease.
What does new growth look like on a Monstera?
A new growth point on a Monstera is typically marked by a node, which is the point on the stem where leaves are attached. The node will be slightly thicker than the rest of the stem and may have a small bud or leaf beginning to grow from it.
Your Monstera’s new growth can also be seen in the form of new leaves beginning to sprout from the nodes. These leaves will be smaller and thinner than the existing leaves on your plant.
The new Monstera leaves will be a lighter lime green hue and will have a more elongated shape than the older leaves
The more nodes that are on your Monstera plant, the more new growth it will have. Nodes can be found along the length of the stem and on the underside of the leaves.
Where does a new leaf come from on Monstera?
A new leaf on Monstera comes from a node, which is the point on the stem where leaves are attached. The node will be slightly thicker than the rest of the stem and may have a small bud or leaf beginning to grow from it. A Monstera with new growth always has healthy active nodes.
As the plant grows, the nodes will become more visible and pronounced. It’s important to note that not all nodes will produce leaves. Some nodes may only produce aerial roots on your Monstera.
Many leaves may sprout from a single node. The more leaves that are on your Monstera plant, the more new growth it will have.
Related: How Long Do Monsteras Take To Grow (and How to Speed It Up)?
Can Monstera grow a new stem?
Yes, Monstera can grow new stems. New stems will typically sprout from the nodes on the plant. The nodes will be located along the length of the stem and will appear as small, slightly thickened points.
Why is my Monstera not growing new leaves?
If your Monstera is not growing new leaves, it’s likely because the plant is not getting enough light. Monsteras need bright, indirect light in order to grow new leaves. If your plant is not getting enough light, the leaves will begin to yellow and the plant will stop growing new leaves.
Here are some other causes of slow growth in Monstera plants:
1. The plant is pot-bound
This means the roots have filled up the pot and the plant is not able to take in enough nutrients, which can lead to your Monstera being root bound. You will need to repot your plant into a larger pot.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current pot. You’ll need to replace your pot at least every two years to ensure there’s enough space for the roots.
2. Nutrient deficiencies
If your plant is not getting enough nutrients, it will also stop growing new leaves. The most common nutrient deficiencies in Monstera plants are nitrogen and phosphorus. These can be corrected by fertilizing your plant with a balanced fertilizer that contains both of these nutrients.
You can also add compost to your potting mix to help improve the quality of the soil and provide additional nutrients for your plant. There are many natural options as well, such as worm castings and fish emulsion.
3. Pests
If your Monstera is infested with pests or diseases, it will also stop growing new leaves. The most common pests that affect these plants are:
- Mealybugs
- Spider mites
- Scale insects on your Monstera
- Thrips on your Monstera
These pests suck the sap from the plant, which can cause the leaves to yellow and eventually drop off.
To control pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. These are safe for humans and animals but will kill the pests. You can also try to remove the pests by hand.
4. Diseases
Diseases that affect Monstera plants include bacterial leaf spots and fungal leaf spots. These diseases cause spots on the leaves, which can eventually lead to the death of the leaf.
To prevent diseases, you should avoid overwatering your Monstera and make sure the leaves are dry before nightfall. You can also treat diseases with fungicides or bactericides.
5. Temperature extremes
Monstera plants are tropical plants and prefer warm, humid conditions. If the temperature drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, the plant won’t produce a new Monstera leaf.
You can raise the temperature by moving your plant to a warmer location or by using a heat mat or grow light. You can also increase the humidity by misting your plant or setting it on a pebble tray.
6. The plant is not getting enough water
Monsteras need to be watered about once a week, or when the soil is dry to the touch. If you are not watering your plant enough, it will stop growing new leaves.
Especially water it with frequency during the spring and summer months when the plant is actively growing. Make sure the water is filtered or distilled to avoid adding fluoride and other minerals to the soil.
Find out more: Exactly How Often to Water Your Monstera
7. Too much water
While Monsteras need to be watered regularly, they don’t like to sit in wet soil. If the plant is sitting in water, the roots will start to rot and the plant will stop growing new leaves.
If you think your plant is overwatered, let the soil dry out completely before watering again. You can also repot the plant into a pot with drainage holes to help excess water drain out of the pot.
8. Dormancy
Monsteras go through a period of dormancy in the late fall and winter months. During this time, the plant will stop growing new leaves and may even lose some of its leaves.
This is normal and nothing to worry about. The plant will start growing again in the spring when the weather warms up. You can help the plant through its dormancy period by giving it less water and fertilizer.
Will my Monstera grow more leaves?
Yes, your Monstera will grow more leaves if you provide it with the proper care. Make sure the plant has enough water, nutrients, and light, and is free from pests and diseases. Avoid extreme temperatures and give the plant a rest period in the late fall and winter months.
With proper care, your Monstera will thrive and produce new leaves, especially as it progresses through the various Monstera growth stages. Keep an eye out for nodes that will produce new leaves, and be patient as the plant grows.
How often does a Monstera produce a new leaf?
A Monstera can produce a new leaf every month or two, depending on the plant’s age and growing conditions. If the plant is young or stressed, it may take longer to produce new leaves. Your Monstera is also more likely to produce new leaves in spring and summer.
That is, the time of the year also affects how often a Monstera produces new leaves. The plant will grow more quickly in the spring and summer months than in the fall and winter.
More mature plants will produce leaves with more frequency and you may find that the plant is rapidly vining. Pruning can help to control the plant’s growth if it’s getting too large for your home.
How long does it take for a Monstera to grow a new leaf?
It takes between 4 to 6 weeks for a Monstera to grow a new leaf. The plant will produce a node first, which is the point on the stem where leaves are attached. The node will be slightly thicker than the rest of the stem and may have a small bud or leaf beginning to grow from it.
As the plant grows, the nodes will become more visible and pronounced. The plant will also start to produce new leaves more frequently. If you see a node on your plant, be patient and wait for the new leaf to appear.
Why won’t my Monstera leaves unfurl?
If the leaves on your Monstera are not unfurling, it could be due to a lack of humidity. This is because Monsteras are native to tropical rainforests where the air is very humid. They won’t unfurl their leaves unless the air around them is also humid.
To increase the humidity, you can mist your plant or set it on a tray of pebbles and water. You can also use a humidifier near your plant. If the Monstera leaves are still not unfurling, they may be too young and will unfurl in time.
Find out more here about your Monstera’s humidity needs.
How long does it take for a Monstera leaf to unravel?
It takes about 1 to 7 weeks for a Monstera leaf to unravel. On average, this will happen in about 3 weeks, although the exact rate depends on your plant’s growing environment and the type of Monstera. In any case, the process is gradual and you may not see much movement at first.
Patience is a virtue when waiting out the various Monstera leaf growth stages, so don’t try to unfurl the leaf or interrupt the plant’s natural process. The leaf will unfurl on its own when it’s ready, which may be more or less time than the average based on whether your plant is in its ideal conditions and the Monstera variety you own.
Is it bad to unfurl a new Monstera leaf?
It’s not a good idea to unfurl a new Monstera leaf. The process is gradual and the plant needs time to adjust. If you try to unfurl the leaf too early, it could damage the plant.
Instead, if your Monstera has a new leaf unfurling, be patient and wait for the leaf to unfurl on its own. Try to make your plant happy in other ways such as by providing it with bright indirect light and keeping it humid.
If you’re still having trouble getting your Monstera to unfurl its leaves, you can try using a grow light. This will provide the plant with the extra light it needs to encourage growth.
Why is my new Monstera leaf floppy?
A new Monstera leaf may be floppy because it’s not getting enough light. The plant needs bright indirect light to grow properly. If the leaves are in low light, they will become floppy and weak.
You can try moving your plant to a brighter spot or using a grow light. Make sure the plant is getting at least 12 hours of light per day. The leaves should start to stand up straight within a few days.
If the leaves are still floppy after you’ve increased the light, they may need additional water. The plant may be dehydrated and your Monstera’s leaves will droop to signal that.
Check the soil and water your plant if it’s dry. The leaves should start to perk up within a few hours.
You can also mist the leaves to help increase the humidity around the plant. This will also help to perk up the leaves.
Similarly, if your new Monstera leaf has no fenestrations, have no fear. Instead, check out: When Do Monstera Leaves Split?
Why is my new Monstera leaf light green?
Young Monstera leaves are light green because they’re not fully developed yet. As the leaves mature, they turn dark green. This is because the chloroplasts in the plant are still developing, which are the parts that have chlorophyll in them which gives plants their green color.
It’s very normal to have a new Monstera leaf that is very pale. This is because the process of turning from light green to dark green can take several weeks or even months. So, don’t worry if your new leaves are still light green. They will eventually turn the right color.