I remember when I got my first Monstera—I had no idea what to expect! But over time, I learned that Monsteras go through clear growth stages, and knowing how to care for each one makes all the difference. If you’ve ever wondered how your Monstera grows, you’re in the right place.
So, what are the growth stages of a Monstera? It starts as a tiny seedling with delicate leaves. Then, it enters the juvenile stage, growing larger but still without splits. Maturity brings those iconic holes and splits, and with proper long-term care like pruning and repotting—it will stay healthy for years.
Want to make sure your Monstera grows strong and beautiful? I’ll break down each stage and show you exactly what to do!
The Early Days: The Seedling Stage
What Is the Seedling Stage?
The first stage of a monstera’s growth is when it’s a small seedling. At this point, your plant is just starting to grow. You’ll see small leaves and the plant won’t be very tall. It’s important to give your seedling the right care to help it grow strong.
Care Tips:
- Water your seedling gently, but don’t overwater it.
- Make sure it gets enough light, but not too much direct sunlight.
- Use a light, well-draining soil mix to avoid root rot.
Common Challenges
At this stage, seedlings can be sensitive. If you don’t water them enough or give them too much sunlight, they may not grow well. Keep an eye on your monstera to make sure it’s getting just what it needs.
Growing Up: The Juvenile Stage
What Happens During the Juvenile Stage?
When your monstera grows a little bigger, it reaches the juvenile stage. You’ll start to see more leaves, but they might still be small. The plant will need more care to grow faster and healthier.
Care Tips:
- Keep watering the plant regularly, but make sure the soil dries out a little between waterings.
- Place the plant somewhere bright but not in direct sun.
- You can start using a mild plant food or fertilizer to help it grow.
Tips for Strong Growth
During the juvenile stage, your monstera will grow faster if it has enough light and nutrients. It’s also a good time to check if the plant needs more space, so consider repotting it into a slightly larger pot.
Getting Bigger: The Maturity Stage
What Is the Maturity Stage?
The maturity stage is when your monstera starts to look more like the full-grown plant you’ve been waiting for. The leaves become much bigger, and you may even see holes in them, which is a unique feature of monstera plants!
Care Tips:
- Continue to water your monstera regularly, but don’t let the soil stay soggy.
- Give the plant plenty of light, especially if you want bigger leaves.
- As the plant gets larger, you might need to add support like a moss pole to help it grow upward.
Supporting Your Plant
At this stage, your monstera will grow tall and spread out. Make sure it has enough space and support so it doesn’t get too tangled or break. You can also start pruning dead leaves to keep it looking neat.
Long-Term Care: Keeping Your Monstera Healthy
How to Take Care of Your Monstera for Years
Once your monstera has reached full maturity, it’s time to think about long-term care. You’ll want to keep it healthy so it keeps growing and looking good for a long time.
Care Tips:
- Repot your monstera every 1-2 years to give it fresh soil and more room to grow.
- Prune the plant to remove any dead or yellowing leaves.
- Keep an eye out for pests like spider mites or aphids.
Keeping It Thriving
To keep your monstera happy, continue giving it the right amount of water, light, and nutrients. If you take care of it well, your monstera will keep growing for years!
FAQs About Monstera Growth Stages
How Long Does It Take for a Monstera to Grow to Full Size?
It usually takes about 2-3 years for a monstera to reach its full size. It depends on how much light, water, and care the plant gets.
How Fast Do Monsteras Grow?
They grow about 1-2 feet per year during the warmer months. Proper care helps them grow faster.
Do Monsteras Like to Be Root Bound?
Monsteras can tolerate being root-bound for a while but will grow better when repotted into a slightly larger container. Learn more in: Do Monsteras Like Being Root Bound?
Can I Grow a Monstera in Low Light?
Monstera plants need bright, indirect light to grow well. They can survive in lower light, but they won’t grow as quickly, and the leaves may not get as big.
Do Monstera Plants Like Coffee Grounds?
Monsteras can benefit from coffee grounds in moderation, as they add nitrogen, but too much can make the soil too acidic. More in: Do Calathea Like Coffee Grounds?
Wrapping Up
Caring for your Monstera through its growth stages is a rewarding experience. By understanding each stage, you’ll know exactly how to help your plant thrive. From the first signs of growth to its full, mature beauty, the right care makes all the difference. Keep your Monstera in the right environment, and soon you’ll enjoy its stunning, split leaves.
Happy Planting!
