15 Hot-Weather Tips Every Monstera Parent Needs

Monsteras love warmth, so summer might seem like their time to shine. But even these tropical beauties can get stressed if things shift too quickly or the heat gets too intense.

So how do you keep those big, glossy leaves looking their best all season?

These key summer care tips for your Monstera will help you strike the right balance with light, water, and humidity. With just a few simple tweaks, your plant can thrive through the warmer months without skipping a beat.

1. Water Monstera deeply once a week to keep soil moist.

Give your Monstera a deep drink about once a week during summer. The heat causes soil to dry out faster, and plants need a bit more moisture to stay healthy.

Push your finger into the soil a couple of inches – if it feels dry, it’s time to water. Always use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.

Pour water slowly until you see a bit draining from the bottom of the pot. This means the moisture is reaching the roots, not just the top layer.

Let any extra water drain away completely. You don’t want your plant sitting in water – this can lead to root problems. Checking the soil before each watering helps prevent overwatering.

2. Place Monstera in bright, indirect sunlight for best growth.

Monstera really likes a spot with plenty of light, but it doesn’t do well in direct sun. Direct rays can scorch the leaves and cause discoloration.

Choose a location where natural light fills the space, like near a window with a sheer curtain. East or north-facing windows usually work well.

If your space tends to be darker, you might notice slower growth, so consider moving your plant to a brighter spot. Just make sure strong midday sun isn’t blasting the leaves.

3. Keep humidity around 60% using a humidifier or pebble tray.

Monsteras need humidity close to 60% during the hotter months. Without it, leaves can dry out or develop brown edges.

A small humidifier placed near your plant keeps things steady, especially in air-conditioned homes (I use this one in my home). They’re easy to use and you can set them on a timer.

Another method is placing the pot on a shallow tray filled with water and pebbles. As the water evaporates, it helps boost humidity around the plant.

Keep an eye on leaf texture – sudden dryness or crisping edges might mean your air is too dry. Regularly topping up the pebble tray or checking your humidifier helps keep your Monstera happy.

4. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer like Miracle-Gro every 4 weeks.

Feeding your plant during the warmer months helps support healthy growth. A balanced liquid fertilizer, such as Miracle-Gro, can be mixed with water and applied directly to the soil every four weeks.

It’s best not to overfeed. Too much fertilizer can lead to leaf burn or weak growth. Stick to the recommended schedule and follow the instructions on the label.

Always water your plant first, then add the fertilizer mix. This helps prevent the roots from getting damaged by concentrated nutrients. Regular, moderate feeding keeps your plant looking its best all summer.

5. Prune yellow or damaged leaves to promote healthy growth.

Cutting off old or spotted leaves keeps your Monstera looking neat and tidy. It also helps the plant send its energy to the healthier leaves, which can lead to better growth during summer.

Use clean, sharp scissors or pruners to remove the unwanted leaves. Always snip close to the stem so you don’t leave a stub behind.

Check your plant every couple of weeks – summer weather can lead to quicker changes. By staying on top of it, you’ll notice new growth coming in faster and fuller.

6. Avoid sudden temperature changes below 60°F (15°C).

Monstera plants don’t react well to sharp drops in temperature. Cool drafts or a sudden chill from open windows or air conditioning can cause stress.

Try to keep your plant away from spots where the temperature shifts quickly, like right next to a door or under a vent. Moving it indoors at night, if it’s usually outside, will help prevent cold shock.

Maintaining a steady, warm environment makes it easier for your Monstera to thrive through summer. You’ll notice the leaves stay healthier and your plant is more likely to keep growing steadily.

7. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust.

Dust can build up on the surface, blocking out sunlight and making it harder for your plant to soak up energy. Gently wiping the leaves with a soft, damp cloth helps keep them clean and lets them breathe.

Use only water on the cloth – avoid any cleaners unless they’re made for houseplants. Support each leaf with your hand while you wipe, so you don’t accidentally bend or snap it.

Cleaning once every couple of weeks is usually enough in summer. It can also give you a good chance to check for pests or other problems up close. You’ll probably notice your plant looks healthier when its leaves are clean and dust-free.

8. Stake or support large leaves to prevent bending.

Once the weather warms up, you might notice your Monstera’s leaves growing rapidly and getting heavier. Without a little help, those weighty leaves can start to droop or even bend.

Using a moss pole or a sturdy stake gives each leaf the support it needs to stay upright. Soft plant ties are great for gently securing leaves or stems to your stake without causing damage.

Try to position the support close to the base of the stem you’re tying. This way, growth stays natural looking and there’s less stress on the plant. Check your supports every few weeks to make sure everything’s still secure and nothing’s cutting into the stems.

9. Repot Monstera every 1-2 years in well-draining soil.

Your plant will grow faster in warmer months, and that means it may start to outgrow its container. Repotting gives it more space for roots and keeps it healthier. Look for signs like roots growing out of the pot or water running right through.

It’s best to use a mix that drains well to avoid soggy soil and root problems. Make it a habit to check the rootball every year or two.

Choose a pot that’s just a little bigger than the last. Water well after repotting and keep your plant out of direct sun for a few days until it adjusts.

10. Check for common pests like spider mites and treat promptly.

Warm weather can bring unwanted guests. Look for tiny webs or specks on your plant’s leaves, especially on the undersides, as these are the telltale signs of spider mites. You might also notice pale or brown spots where the pests have fed.

Catching an issue early is much easier than dealing with a full-blown infestation. Use a damp cloth to wipe affected leaves or spray with a gentle insecticidal soap, like this one. Make sure to follow product directions and repeat as needed.

Keep your Monstera away from stressed or infested houseplants during the summer. Regularly give your plant a quick inspection, especially after bringing it outside or whenever you move it to a new spot indoors.

11. Increase watering frequency during hot weather but avoid waterlogging.

Hot summer days mean your plant will dry out quicker than usual. Be ready to water more often, but pay close attention to the soil each time.

Stick your finger a couple of inches into the potting mix. If it feels dry, it’s time for a drink. If it’s still moist, wait a bit longer.

Watch for soggy soil collecting at the bottom. That’s a sign to slow down or check if your planter is draining properly.

Using room temperature water helps avoid shocking the roots. This way, your plant gets what it needs without risk of rot.

12. Use a moss pole to encourage aerial root attachment.

A moss pole gives your Monstera something natural to climb, which can support healthy growth. It also helps those aerial roots have a target and something to grab onto, instead of wandering in the air.

To get started, gently press the pole into the soil near your plant’s main stem. Secure a few stems or roots loosely with plant ties. Make sure you don’t tie them too tightly – you don’t want to damage the stems.

Mist the moss pole now and then to keep it moist. This extra humidity makes it easier for roots to attach and grow. With time, you’ll notice your Monstera anchoring itself and looking a lot happier.

13. Avoid using cold tap water; use room-temperature water.

Cold water straight from the tap can shock your Monstera’s roots. Room-temperature water is much gentler and helps prevent stress. Fill your watering can and let it sit out for a while so it’s not too chilly.

Using water that matches the surrounding temperature also supports even moisture uptake. This reduces the risk of droopy leaves or slowed growth. In warmer months, it’s an easy habit to help your plant stay comfortable.

You’ll notice your Monstera responds better when its roots aren’t hit with a temperature surprise. A consistent temperature keeps things steady and supports healthy growth.

14. Trim aerial roots only if they become unruly or invasive.

Aerial roots often help Monstera plants climb and pull moisture from the air. You’ll notice these roots grow longer and may wander away from the main plant.

It’s fine to leave them alone, but sometimes they get in the way or look messy. You can trim them back if they start taking over your space or tangle up with furniture.

Always use clean, sharp scissors to cut them. Just snip close to the main stem and avoid cutting into the stem itself.

Pruning them won’t hurt your Monstera as long as you avoid overdoing it. Let most roots stay unless they’re really causing a problem.

15. Turn the plant occasionally for even light exposure.

Turning your plant every couple of weeks helps it get light on all sides. You’ll notice that it tends to reach toward the brightest spot in the room.

A simple quarter turn can encourage balanced growth. Rotating the pot keeps leaves from becoming lopsided or uneven.

Try to make a habit of it when you water. This way, you won’t forget and your plant gets a nice, even look all summer long.

Understanding Monstera’s Summer Growth Cycle

Warmer months usually bring rapid growth, but hot weather also means you should keep a closer eye on your plant’s changing needs. Morning sunlight, higher humidity, and frequent watering all play big parts in keeping everything healthy.

Temperature and Light Sensitivity

Monstera prefers temperatures between 65 and 85°F. As things heat up, avoid putting your plant in spots where afternoon sun can scorch the leaves. If a room gets hotter than 90°F, move your Monstera to a shadier spot or try sheer curtains to diffuse light.

Direct sun can burn the foliage, so go for filtered sunlight by placing your plant near an east-facing window. Low light will slow down growth, but harsh midday light is just as bad. You can rotate the pot every week or so to help it grow evenly and prevent leaning.

Seasonal Watering Needs

Growth picks up in summer, and Monsteras usually need more water. Check the soil at least once a week – water when the top 2 inches feel dry. Don’t let the pot sit in water, as soggy soil leads to root rot.

Stick your finger in the soil or use a moisture meter to get an accurate idea of how damp it is. You might need to water more often in July and August, but always watch the weather.

Heatwaves and dry air mean faster evaporation, so you may even need to water twice in a week, especially if you see drooping leaves.

For busy days, setting reminders or placing a calendar by the plant can help you track watering times. Consistent checks keep root health in check, especially when temperatures jump.

Preventing Common Summer Problems

Monstera plants can develop problems like scorched leaves and unwanted insects once the weather heats up. Your care routine will need small but important changes to keep these issues from turning into bigger headaches.

Sunburn and Leaf Damage

Monstera leaves can scorch quickly if they get too much direct sunlight, especially during midday. Sunburn looks like bleached, dry, or brown patches. Signs of overexposure usually show up first on leaves that face the window.

To protect your plant, move it a few feet back from the window or use sheer curtains to filter strong sunlight. Make sure you rotate your Monstera each week so every side gets equal light exposure, which can prevent patchy growth and uneven burning.

If you spot damaged leaves, remove only the parts that are badly affected using clean scissors. Avoid misting the plant when the sun’s out, since water droplets can magnify heat and worsen burning.

In very hot climates, shifting your plant farther from the south-facing window during heatwaves is a smart move.

Pest Awareness in Warm Weather

Higher temperatures and humidity let pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips thrive. Check both sides of your Monstera’s leaves weekly for specks, webbings, or sticky residues.

If you spot pests, isolate your plant right away. Wipe affected leaves with a damp cloth to remove insects, or use a diluted mix of mild soap and water if there’s a bigger problem. Repeat treatments every few days until you don’t see any pests.

Don’t forget to check the soil surface and stems, since some bugs hide there. Keeping your Monstera’s leaves clean with regular wiping makes it harder for pests to settle in. Good air circulation helps, so open windows as weather permits or use a small fan nearby.