Repotting Monstera Houseplants: A Complete Guide

Monstera plants, also known as Swiss cheese plants, are one of the most popular plants chosen by plant parents. These fast-growing green leaved beauties are much loved. Above all for their stunning leaves and relatively low maintenance requirements. However, even these hardy plants need a little extra care from time to time. Repotting Monstera houseplants is a great way to ensure their environment is at its best.

Monstera can be especially quick growing. Therefore repotting can be very important. Repotting is essential for maintaining healthy growth and ensuring that your monstera has enough space to thrive. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about repotting your monstera. Before we dive in to how to repot monstera houseplants, it is important to understand why it is important.

Why Repot Your Monstera?

• Prevent them outgrowing their pot: Monstera plants grow quickly and can easily outgrow their pots. The consequence of this is that they become root-bound. This condition is when roots start circling the pot and become tangled. When this happens, your plant can damage itself and stop growing.

• Fresh Soil: Over time, soil loses its nutrients and becomes compacted. This reduces its ability to retain water, aerate and support root health. Fresh soil replenishes nutrients, helps water retention and improves root health.

• Health Check: Repotting provides an opportunity to inspect the roots for rot, pests, or disease and to prune any damaged parts.

When to Repot Monstera Houseplants?

The best time to repot a monstera is during the growing season,. Typically that will be in spring or early summer. This is important because it is when the plant is actively growing. Which means it can recover quickly from any stress caused by repotting.

Signs Your Monstera Needs Repotting

• Roots are growing out of the drainage holes.
• The plant is top-heavy and prone to tipping over.
• Water runs through the pot quickly, indicating compacted soil.
• The plant's growth has slowed down, despite proper care.

What You'll Need

You can find everything you need conveniently in one place on our repotting plants page.

• A new pot that is 2-10 centimetres larger in diameter than the current one, with drainage holes.
• Fresh, well-draining potting mix. A mix of pine bark, and perlite or aroids-specific mix works well.
• Soil Additives. Perlite is an important additive.
• Plant supports, moss poles and pins.
• A watering can.
• Root growth stimulator (optional).
• Pruning shears (optional).
• Gloves (optional).
• Pot Labels (optional).

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Repot a Monstera

1. Prepare the New Pot and Soil:

Fill the bottom of the new pot with a layer of fresh potting mix. This layer should be enough to allow the plant to sit at the same level it was in the old pot.

2. Remove the Monstera from Its Current Pot:

Gently turn the plant on its side and carefully slide it out of the pot. If it's stuck, you can tap the sides of the pot to loosen it. Avoid pulling the plant by its stems to prevent damage.

3. Inspect and Prune the Roots:

Check the roots for any signs of rot (brown, mushy roots) or pests. Healthy roots should be white or light tan and firm. Trim any damaged or overly long roots with clean pruning shears.

4. Place the Monstera in the New Pot:

Position the plant in the centre of the new pot. The base of the stems should sit about an inch below the rim of the pot.

5. Add Fresh Soil and Additives:

If you are usings soil additives, mix them together so the soil is evenly balanced. Fill around the roots with fresh potting mix, gently pressing it down to eliminate air pockets. Ensure that the plant is stable and upright. If your plant needs support, such as a moss pole, add the support and use clips or mossing pins to attach the plant to the moss pole.

6. Water Thoroughly:

Water the plant thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom of the pot. This helps to settle the soil around the roots. Adding root growth stimulator is a great way to encourage your plant to grow new roots quickly and will help your plant quickly establish itself in its new pot.

7. Post-Repotting Care:

Place the repotted monstera in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight for a few days to reduce stress.

Monitor the plant for signs of stress such as wilting or yellowing leaves. It may take a few weeks for the plant to adjust to its new pot.

Tips for Repotting a Monstera

Choose the Right Pot: Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating and causing root rot.

Avoid Overwatering: After repotting, allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to encourage root growth.

Provide Support: Larger monstera plants may need a moss pole or stake to support their growth and prevent toppling.

Repotting plants is very therapeutic to plant parents. Repotting your monstera may seem daunting. But it's a rewarding process that ensures your plant continues to grow healthy and strong. It will provide your monstera with the space and nutrients it needs to flourish and continue to grow.