Why Is My Monstera Drooping? Common Causes and Quick Fixes

Ever walked past your Monstera, only to see it looking sad and droopy? I know that sinking feeling! But don’t panic—your plant isn’t dying. Monsteras are tough, and with a few simple tweaks, those leaves will perk up in no time.

So, why is your Monstera drooping? The most common reasons are overwatering, underwatering, low humidity, or poor lighting. If the soil is too wet, your plant’s roots might be struggling. If it’s dry, your Monstera is thirsty. Temperature changes and drafts can also stress it out. Fixing these issues is key to bringing it back to life.

Let’s get to the bottom of this! I’ll walk you through each possible cause and the best ways to fix it.

Common Causes of Drooping in Monstera Plants

1. Overwatering and Waterlogged Soil

Overwatering is one of the most frequent causes of drooping Monstera leaves. When the soil is too wet, the roots can’t breathe, leading to rot and weak leaves.

Signs of Overwatering:

• Soggy or muddy soil.
• Leaves looking limp or yellow.
• A musty smell from the pot.

How to Fix It:

1. Check the soil’s moisture with your finger or a moisture meter.
2. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again.
3. Ensure your pot has proper drainage holes.

Pro Tip: Use a well-draining soil mix to prevent water from pooling around the roots.

2. Underwatering and Dry Soil

Underwatering can also cause drooping. When a monstera doesn’t get enough water, its leaves lose firmness and start to wilt.

Signs of Underwatering:

• Very dry soil.
• Crispy or brown edges on the leaves.

How to Fix It:

1. Water your Monstera thoroughly, ensuring water drains from the bottom of the pot.
2. Check the plant regularly to prevent dry soil.

Prevention Tip:

Stick to a consistent watering schedule. Use a reminder or a plant care app to stay on track.

3. Inadequate Light

Monstera plants need bright, indirect light to thrive. Too much shade or direct sunlight can cause stress, leading to drooping leaves.

Signs of Light Issues:

• Leaves drooping or curling.
• Slow or leggy growth.

How to Fix It:

1. Move your monstera to a spot with bright, indirect sunlight.
2. Use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight.

Quick Tip: If your home lacks natural light, a grow light can be a lifesaver.

4. Temperature or Humidity Stress

Monstera plants love warm, humid environments. Cold drafts or low humidity can make the leaves droop.

Signs of Stress:

• Browning leaf edges.
• Overall unhealthy appearance.

How to Fix It:

1. Keep your Monstera in a room with temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C–29°C).
2. Use a humidifier or mist the plant to maintain humidity levels.

Prevention Tip:

Avoid placing your monstera near vents, heaters, or drafty windows.

How to Revive a Drooping Monstera

If your Monstera is drooping, follow these steps to bring it back to life:

Step 1: Assess the Soil

• Check if the soil is too wet or too dry. Adjust watering accordingly.

Step 2: Examine the Roots

• Carefully remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. Trim any mushy or black roots.

Step 3: Repot If Necessary

• Use fresh, well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes.

Step 4: Adjust Light and Temperature

• Place the plant in a spot with bright, indirect light and consistent warmth.

Step 5: Monitor and Support Recovery

• Clean the leaves to help them absorb light better and consider using a balanced houseplant fertilizer.

Preventative Tips for a Healthy Monstera

1. Water Wisely: Only water when the top 2 inches of soil are dry.
2. Provide Good Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal.
3. Maintain Humidity: Use a humidifier or mist the plant regularly.
4. Inspect Regularly: Check for pests, drooping, or other stress signs to catch problems early.

FAQ: Monstera Care Tips

Why Are My Monstera’s New Leaves Drooping? 

New leaves may droop if the plant isn’t getting enough water, light, or humidity. Check the environment and make adjustments as needed.

How Long Does It Take for a Drooping Monstera to Recover? 

With proper care, your Monstera should start perking up within 1-2 weeks.

Can I Save a Monstera With Root Rot? 

Yes! Trim the rotted roots, repot in fresh soil, and adjust your watering routine.

Wrapping It Up

A drooping Monstera (Monstera deliciosa) doesn’t have to spell disaster. With a little attention to water, light, and humidity, your plant can bounce back and thrive. Remember, Monstera plants are resilient and forgiving, so don’t be afraid to experiment and learn what works best for yours. Here’s to happy, healthy leaves!

Happy Planting!