Taking care of your Monstera plant during the winter months can be a bit challenging.
Monstera needs to be kept warm and protected from the cold as a tropical plant.
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But don’t worry. With simple tips and tricks, you can ensure your Monstera thrives even in the year’s coldest months.
In this article, we’ll go over the dos and don’ts of caring for your Monstera during the winter months so you can keep your plant healthy and happy all year round.
Understanding Monstera Plant
This tropical plant is native to Central and South America and is a popular choice for indoor gardening.
Monstera plants are known for their large, glossy leaves with unique perforations and splits, making them a great addition to any home.
Monstera plants are relatively easy to care for, but it’s important to understand their needs, especially during the winter months.
Winter Care for Monstera
If you live in a region with cold winters, you may need to take extra care of your Monstera to ensure it thrives during winter.
In this section, we’ll cover the three main areas (plus more) you must focus on: temperature, humidity, and lighting.
Temperature Requirements
Monstera plants are tropical plants and prefer temperatures between 64°F to 84°F. During the winter months, keeping your Monstera away from cold drafts and windows is essential.
If the temperature drops below 60°F, your Monstera may start to suffer, and growth may slow down.
To maintain the ideal temperature, you can place your Monstera near a heat source like a space heater to keep the room warm.
However, be careful not to place the plant too close to the heat source, which can damage the leaves.
You can try this best-selling heater on Amazon.
Humidity Levels
Monstera plants thrive in high humidity levels, but during the winter months, indoor air can become dry due to heating systems.
You can use a humidifier or place a water tray near the plant to maintain optimal humidity levels. Another option is to mist the leaves regularly with water to increase humidity levels.
Check out this humidifier on Amazon.
Lighting Conditions
During the winter months, the days are shorter, and less natural light is available. Monstera plants require bright, indirect light to grow correctly, and insufficient light can lead to slow growth and small leaves.
To ensure your Monstera receives enough light, place it near a window that receives bright, indirect light.
If your Monstera isn’t receiving enough light, you can supplement with artificial light using grow lights.
For more information, read this: Monstera Lighting Guide: The Secret to Unleashing Lush Greenery
Watering Schedule
During the winter months, Monstera plants require less water than they do during the summer.
It’s essential to adjust your watering schedule accordingly to prevent overwatering.
Here are a few tips for watering your Monstera during the winter:
- Water your plant only when the soil is dry to the touch
- Reduce the frequency of watering to once every few weeks.
- Use room temperature water to avoid shocking your plant
Fertilizing Needs
Monstera plants do not require as much fertilizer during winter as they do in summer. It’s important to reduce the frequency of fertilizing to avoid over-fertilizing your plant.
Here are a few tips for fertilizing your Monstera during the winter:
- Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
- Fertilize your plant once every 2-3 months
- Dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to avoid over-fertilizing
Common Winter Problems and Solutions
Yellow Leaves
If you notice that your Monstera’s leaves are turning yellow, it may be due to overwatering or underwatering.
During winter, the soil may take longer to dry out, so check the soil moisture level before watering. If the soil is still moist, wait a few more days before watering again. If the soil is dry, water your Monstera thoroughly.
Another possible cause of yellow leaves is lack of sunlight. Monstera plants need bright, indirect light to thrive.
If your Monstera is not getting enough light, move it closer to a window or consider using grow lights.
Drooping Leaves
Drooping leaves can be a sign of several issues. One common cause is overwatering. During the winter months, Monstera plants may not need as much water as they do in the summer.
Be sure to check the soil moisture level before watering.
Another possible cause of drooping leaves is lack of humidity. Winter air can be dry, which can cause the leaves to droop.
Slow Growth
Monstera plants may grow more slowly during the winter months than in the summer.
This is normal and nothing to worry about. However, if you notice that your Monstera is not growing at all, it may be due to a lack of sunlight.
Related: 12 Reasons Why Your Monstera’s Leaves Are Curling: Unveiling Common Culprits
Wrapping Up Your Monstera’s Winter Care
Congratulations! You’ve successfully taken care of your Monstera during the winter months.
Here are a few final tips to help wrap up your Monstera’s winter care:
- Check for pests: As you resume caring for your Monstera, watch for any signs of pests, such as spider mites or mealybugs. If you notice any, treat your plant with an appropriate insecticide.
- Consider repotting: If your Monstera has outgrown its current pot, now is an excellent time to repot it. Choose a pot one size larger than its current pot, and use fresh potting soil.
- Enjoy your Monstera: Finally, sit back and enjoy your beautiful Monstera! With proper care, it will continue to thrive and grow, bringing joy and beauty to your home.
