If you’ve ever found yourself puzzled by your once upright Monstera leaning to one side, you are not alone.
This is a common issue that Monstera owners encounter, often causing worry and confusion. But don’t fret!
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This unusual behavior of your Monstera is not necessarily a sign of doom but an indication that it needs a little extra care.
In this article, we present you with five effective solutions to get your Monstera standing tall once again.
Each solution is connected to a possible cause, helping you understand the underlying issue as you rectify it.
Adjust Light Exposure
One of the most common reasons for a leaning Monstera is inadequate light exposure.
Monsteras, native to tropical rainforests, are accustomed to bright, indirect light filtered through the dense overhead canopy.
They naturally exhibit phototropism, a process where they grow towards the light source to maximize photosynthesis.
If your Monstera is leaning, it might be due to its instinct to get closer to the light source.
Solution
Rotate your Monstera every few days to ensure all parts of the plant receive equal light exposure.
This practice will encourage balanced growth and prevent leaning towards one side.
If you notice your Monstera constantly leaning towards the light, consider repositioning it to a location with better access to bright, indirect light, such as near a north or east-facing window.
However, be wary of direct sunlight, which can cause leaf burn. If direct sunlight is unavoidable, consider using a sheer curtain to filter the light.
To help manage the light exposure, you might consider getting a light meter to gauge the light levels in different parts of your room accurately. This handy tool can help you find the perfect spot for your Monstera.
Here’s a quick guide for Monstera’s light requirements: Monstera Lighting Guide: The Secret To Unleashing Lush Greenery.
Water Evenly
Water is vital for the health and growth of your Monstera.
However, uneven watering, where one side of the root system gets more water than the other, can cause an imbalance, making your plant lean towards the drier side.
Solution
Water your Monstera thoroughly, ensuring the entire root system is evenly moistened.
An effective method is the “soak and drain” technique: water the plant until water runs out of the drainage holes, then let it drain completely.
This method ensures all roots have access to water. Let the top inch of soil dry out between watering to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Here’s how you should water your Monsteras: Watering Monstera Plants – How To, How Often & How Much
Repot Into a Larger Container
As Monsteras grow, their extensive root system may outgrow the current pot, leading to a lack of space for root expansion.
This lack of space can hinder stability and cause the plant to lean out of its container.
Solution
Repot your Monstera into a larger container. The new pot should be 2-3 inches wider in diameter than the current one, offering enough space for the roots to spread and grow.
Be careful not to choose a pot that’s too large, as it might hold too much water, causing the soil to remain soggy and potentially leading to root rot.
Always ensure the pot has sufficient drainage holes.
Finding the right pot can be a bit of a Goldilocks situation – not too big, not too small, but just right. Amazon offers a variety of pots that might suit your needs.
Check out this set of pots with excellent drainage to give your Monstera the space it needs to grow without risking root rot.
Here’s how to properly report your Monsteras: Monstera Potting And Repotting Guide
Install a Support System
Monsteras, being natural climbers, requires a support system for optimal growth.
Without support, their large leaves and aerial roots can cause the plant to become top-heavy and start leaning or drooping.
Solution
Provide your Monstera with a support system such as a moss pole, trellis, or even a sturdy wooden stake.
As the plant grows, you can gently attach it to the support using soft plant ties or strips of fabric, being cautious not to damage the stems.
This mimics the Monstera’s natural environment and can help it grow upward rather than lean to the side.
If you’re unsure where to find a good support system, Amazon has a range of options, like this stackable moss pole that encourages natural climbing.
It’s sturdy and gives your Monstera a natural support system to grow tall and healthy.
Don’t know which support to use? Here’s a quick guide: 5 Creative Ways To Support Your Climbing Monstera At Home
Check Root Health
If your Monstera is leaning despite proper light and watering, the issue might be below the soil.
Root diseases, such as root rot, can affect the plant’s stability and cause it to lean.
Solution
Unpot your Monstera and inspect the root system.
Healthy roots should be firm and white or light tan, while unhealthy roots might appear dark, mushy, and may have a foul odor.
If you find unhealthy roots, trim them away using sterilized pruning shears, leaving only healthy roots.
Before repotting, consider treating the remaining root system with a fungicide to prevent further disease spread.
Keeping a pair of sterilized pruning shears on hand is essential for maintaining the health of your Monstera’s roots.
See these pruning shears available on Amazon – they’re sharp, easy to handle, and rust-resistant, making them perfect for this kind of task.
Every Monstera is Unique
Remember, each Monstera is unique, and its care should be tailored to its specific needs and environment.
Observing your plant regularly will help you catch any issues early and take appropriate action, ensuring your Monstera remains healthy and vibrant.
To get a glimpse of how Monsteras grow in the wild, check out this article:
Unveiling The Giants: The Discovery Of The World’s Largest Monstera Plants
