Want your monstera to grow faster? I totally get it—there’s nothing more satisfying than watching those big, beautiful leaves unfurl. I’m here to help you speed things up with simple, expert tricks that really work.
The secret? Give your monstera bright, indirect light, keep the humidity high, and water it just right. Add in healthy soil and a little TLC, and you’ll see faster growth in no time.
Stick with me—I’ve got 10 proven tips below to turn your monstera into a leafy showstopper.
Let’s dive in!
Why Does Monstera Growth Matter?
Monsteras (like Monstera deliciosa or Monstera adansonii) are tropical beauties that can climb 60 feet in the wild. Indoors, they won’t get that big, but with proper care, they’ll grow fast and strong. Faster growth means more leaves, bigger fenestrations (those cool splits), and a healthier plant. Plus, it’s rewarding to watch your monstera flourish!
To speed things up, mimic its jungle home: warm, humid, with dappled light and rich soil. It’s simpler than it sounds—here’s how.
Want Your Monstera to Grow Faster? Here Are 10 Quick Tips
Short on time? These 10 tips will speed up your monstera’s growth:
1. Use bright, indirect light (e.g., east-facing window).
2. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry.
3. Maintain 50-60% humidity with a humidifier or misting.
4. Plant in well-draining soil with perlite and peat.
5. Fertilize monthly in spring/summer with diluted 20-20-20.
6. Add a moss pole for climbing support and bigger leaves.
7. Prune dead or leggy stems to focus energy on new growth.
8. Keep it warm—65-85°F, ideally above 70°F.
9. Check for pests like spider mites and wipe leaves clean.
10. Be patient—consistent care brings steady growth (1-2 feet/year).
Now, let’s break these down with expert details to help your monstera thrive.
10 Expert Tips to Boost Monstera Growth
1. Light Requirements for Monstera
Light is like food for plants—it powers growth through photosynthesis. Monsteras love bright, indirect light. Too little light slows them down, and too much direct sun burns their leaves.
Best Spot
Place your monstera near a window with filtered light, like through sheer curtains. East or north-facing windows work great.
Signs It Needs More Light
If leaves are small, pale, or slow to grow, move it closer to a light source.
Tip
Rotate your Swiss cheese plants every few weeks for even growth. A grow light (12-18 inches above, 10-12 hours daily) works too.
2. Water Monstera for Faster Growth
Water keeps your monstera hydrated, but overwatering rots the roots, slowing growth or killing the plant.
How to Water
Wait until the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry, then water until it drains out the bottom. Dump any extra water from the saucer.
Learn step by step: How to Water Monstera Plants
How Often
Every 1-2 weeks, depending on your home’s humidity and season. In summer, it might need more; in winter, less.
Check out: How Often to Water Monstera
Signs of Trouble
Yellow leaves mean too much water. Droopy, dry leaves mean too little.
Pro trick
Use room-temperature water. Cold water shocks the roots and slows growth. Stick your finger in the soil to check—it’s the easiest way to get it right.
3. Boost Humidity for Tropical Vibes
Monsteras come from rainforests, so they love moisture in the air. Dry air—like in heated homes—slows growth and browns leaf tips.
Ideal Humidity
50-60% or higher. Most homes are around 30-40%, so you’ll need to help.
Easy Fixes
- Mist the Leaves: Spray water on the leaves 2-3 times a week.
- Pebble Tray: Put a tray of water with pebbles under the pot (keep the pot above the water).
- Humidifier: A small one near your plant works wonders.
Watch your monstera perk up with higher humidity. New leaves will pop out faster, and they’ll look shiny and healthy.
4. Best Soil Mix for Monstera Growth
Good soil is the foundation for fast growth. Monsteras need soil that drains well but holds some moisture.
Perfect Mix
Combine 1 part potting soil, 1 part perlite, and 1 part peat moss or coconut coir. Perlite keeps it airy; peat or coir holds water just right.
Why It Works
Roots need oxygen and water. Soggy soil suffocates them, while loose soil lets them stretch and grow.
Repotting
Every 1-2 years, move your monstera to a slightly bigger pot with fresh soil. Spring is the best time. If the soil feels hard or packed, loosen it up. Healthy roots mean a happy, fast-growing plant.
5. Fertilizing Monstera for Bigger Leaves
Fertilizer boosts monstera growth with nutrients for big leaves.
What to Use
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, like 20-20-20, in spring/summer. Those numbers represent equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which help your monstera grow lush leaves, strong roots, and overall vigor. Dilute it to half-strength so it’s not too strong.
When to Feed
Fertilize your Monstera every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). skip fall and winter.
| Season | Fertilization Frequency |
| Spring | Every 4-6 weeks |
| Summer | Every 4-6 weeks |
| Fall | None |
| Winter | None |
How to Apply
Mix it into your watering can and pour it over the soil. Don’t overdo it—too much fertilizer burns the roots. If you see brown leaf edges, cut back. With the right food, your monstera will shoot up in no time!
6. Using a Moss Pole or Trellis for Support
In the wild, monsteras climb trees. Giving them something to climb indoors helps them grow taller and faster.
Options
Use a moss pole, wooden stake, or trellis. Moss poles are awesome because they hold moisture, mimicking nature.
How to Do It
Gently tie the stems to the support with soft ties (like string or plant straps). Aerial roots will grab on over time.
Bonus
Climbing encourages bigger leaves with cool splits. Check the pole every few months. As your monstera grows, it might need a taller one. This trick really speeds things up!
7. Pruning Monstera for Faster Growth
Cutting your monstera might sound scary, but it’s a secret weapon for faster growth. Pruning removes old or weak parts so the plant focuses energy on new leaves.
What to Cut
Snip off yellow, brown, or leggy stems (long with few leaves). Use clean scissors or shears.
When to Prune
Spring or early summer, when growth is strong.
Extra Perk
Save healthy cuttings to grow new plants! Put them in water until roots form, then plant them.
Pruning keeps your monstera bushy and lively. Don’t be afraid—it loves a little trim!
8. Ideal Temperature for Monstera Growth
Monsteras hate the cold. They grow fastest in warm, stable temps like their tropical home.
Best Range
65-85°F (18-29°C). Above 70°F is ideal for speedy growth.
Avoid
Drafty windows, air vents, or chilly spots below 60°F. Cold slows everything down.
Tip
If your home gets cold in winter, move the plant to a warmer room or use a small space heater nearby (safely!). Warmth signals your monstera to grow. Keep it cozy, and you’ll see results.
9. Watch Out for Pests and Problems
Pests like spider mites or mealybugs can steal your monstera’s energy, slowing growth. Catching them early keeps your plant on track.
Common Culprits
Tiny webs (spider mites), white fluff (mealybugs), or sticky leaves (aphids).
Fix It
Wipe leaves with soapy water (a few drops of dish soap in a cup of water). For bad cases, use neem oil—safe and natural.
Prevention
Clean the leaves monthly and check the undersides. Healthy plants resist pests better.
A pest-free monstera grows faster because all its energy goes to new leaves, not fighting bugs.
Learn more in: How to Get Rid of Thrips on Monstera: Step-by-Step Guide
10. Be Patient and Consistent
Even with perfect care, monsteras take time to grow. But consistency pays off—stick to these tips, and you’ll see steady progress.
Growth Rate
With great conditions, expect 1-2 feet of growth per year indoors.
Signs of Success
New leaves every few weeks, bigger splits, and a fuller look.
Stay Calm
If growth slows in winter, it’s normal. Spring will bring it back. Track your care routine—light, water, food—and tweak as needed. Your monstera will reward you!
Common Monstera Questions
Why Isn’t My Monstera Growing Fast?
Low light or overwatering slows growth. Adjust gradually.
Can I Make My Monstera Grow Huge Leaves?
Yes! Bright light, a climbing pole, and fertilizer encourage bigger, split leaves.
How Do I Get My Monstera to Develop More Holes in Its Leaves?
Give it plenty of bright, indirect light and high humidity. Splits come with maturity.
How Often Should I Water My Monstera?
Water your Monstera when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry, usually every 1-2 weeks.
Can Monstera Grow in Low Light?
Yes, but it grows best in bright, indirect light. In low light, growth slows, and leaves may not develop splits.
How Long Does It Take for Monstera Leaves to Split?
Leaves usually start splitting at 2–3 years old, depending on light, humidity, and overall care.
What’s the Best Pot Size for Monstera?
A pot 2 inches larger than the root ball with drainage holes is ideal, allowing room for growth without retaining excess moisture.
What Slows Monstera Growth the Most?
Low light and overwatering.
How Long Does It Take for a Monstera to Grow Big?
1-2 feet per year indoors with ideal conditions. Check out guide: How Big Do Monstera Plants Get?
Final Thoughts
Making your monstera grow faster is about balance—light, water, nutrients, and care. Start with one tip, like better light, and build from there. Soon, you’ll have a thriving, leafy beauty that turns heads. I’ve grown monsteras for years, and these methods work every time. Trust the process, and your plant will thank you with lush, speedy growth.
Got questions? Drop them below—I’m here to help your monstera journey!
Happy Growing!
