Keep Your Monstera Plants Healthy All Winter With These Simple Tips

If you're a plant enthusiast, the monstera (Monstera spp.) hardly needs an introduction. This tropical plant is prized for its lush foliage and impressive growing potential. There are various monstera plant varieties popular with avid plant collectors, including the Monstera deliciosa, Monstera adansonii, and Monstera esqueleto. Some are small and vining while others fan out with impressive, large foliage. Their iconic perforated leaves aren't just stylish — they help light reach lower leaves. These plants can make for excellent houseplants.

When caring for a monstera inside, keep it somewhere it can receive bright indirect light. Most monstera varieties can benefit from training against moss poles or other support structures to help keep them upright. Water your plant generously when the top 25% to 30% of the soil is dry. These simple care tips should have you well on your way to a thriving plant. 

However, winter comes with its own set of challenges you'll need to address. Your plant will have to contend with the shorter days and reduced light of the season. The heat coming from your heating system might be more dry than your monstera is used to. Temperatures also may fluctuate more, which can cause undue stress on your precious plant. And you need to adjust your watering schedule to account for the slower metabolic state your monstera falls into during the winter.

Keeping your monstera happy and healthy this winter isn't complicated, but it does require some effort. There are a variety of ways you can tweak your houseplant care routine for winter. For monsteras, one of the most important considerations is keeping this tropical beauty warm. Move your plant away from drafty windows. It should stay at a consistent temperature of 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If you want to be extra cautious, you can even place it in an insulated container and envelop it in insulating pot wrap.

Even with careful temperature regulation, it's natural for your monstera to go dormant during the winter. Your plant will require significantly less water since it's growing less than in other seasons. Making sure your monstera receives enough sunlight is also vital. You should get as close to 12 to 14 hours of light a day as possible. To achieve this, you can move your plant closer to a south-facing window or even opt for grow lights. 

Address dry air by placing your monstera on a tray filled with pebbles and water, making sure the pot is lifted above the waterline. This creates a humid microclimate for your plant. You can also place it closer to other plants for increased humidity. Just make sure to isolate any plants that look unhealthy to prevent the spread of disease. Winter also serves as a great time to lightly prune. As long as you're diligent, your monstera should thrive this winter!