Monstera deliciosa

How Often to Water a Monstera

Monstera has big leaves that lose a lot of water in bright light, but a thick root system that rots if kept wet. Water deeply, then wait for the top inch or two to dry.

Short answer: for a monstera, with the starting settings below (an 8 inch pot with a drainage hole), check the soil about every 6 to 9 days in spring and summer and every 9 to 13 days in winter, and water when the top inch of soil is dry. Give it a full drink until water runs out the bottom.

Your monstera

Your answer

Water when the soil reaches this point

How it shifts through the year

Thirsty signs

  • Leaves droop or curl, and edges turn brown and crisp
  • Growth stalls and new leaves come in small
  • Soil is dry well below the surface

Overwatered signs

  • Yellow leaves, especially lower ones
  • Brown spots with yellow rings on leaves
  • Soil that smells musty or stays wet for days

Watering tips for monstera

Common questions

How often do you water a monstera?

Check the soil about every 6 to 9 days in spring and summer and water only when the top inch of soil is dry. In winter, growth slows and soil stays wet longer, so expect roughly 9 to 13 days between checks. Always confirm with your finger first.

How much water does a monstera need?

Water slowly until water runs out the drainage holes, then empty the saucer within an hour. The right amount depends on pot size, so go by drainage and how dry the soil is, not a fixed measure. With big leaves and a thick root system, a deep soak less often works better than small, frequent splashes.

How much light does a monstera need to dry out between waterings?

Bright, indirect light dries soil much faster than a dim corner. In low light, wait longer between checks, because the plant uses less water.

Should I water monstera less in winter?

Yes. Growth slows with shorter days, so the soil stays wet longer. Keep checking by touch instead of switching to a fixed winter schedule.

Tools that help

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Related guides

Estimates use rules of thumb. Always confirm with your finger: push it about an inch into the soil before you water.