Monstera Care: Light, Water, Support, and Those Famous Holes
Priya Hollis · Oct 19, 2026 · 5 min read
Quick answer
Monstera deliciosa is easy to keep alive but takes a little know-how to keep growing big, split leaves.
The Swiss cheese plant is one of the most popular houseplants for good reason: it grows quickly, forgives occasional neglect, and makes a statement in a room.
If yours is producing small leaves with no splits, the answer is nearly always light.
1 Light and leaf splits
In the wild, monsteras climb trees toward the light, and mature leaves develop holes and splits (fenestrations). Indoors, a plant in a dim corner stays in a juvenile state with small, solid leaves. Bright, indirect light — near an east or west window, or a metre or two back from a south-facing one — encourages bigger, split leaves.
2 Watering
Water when the top third of the compost has dried out. Yellowing lower leaves usually mean too much water; brown, crispy edges suggest too little or very dry air.
3 Give it something to climb
Monsteras are climbers, and a moss pole or sturdy stake encourages larger leaves and keeps the plant from sprawling. Tie stems loosely and guide aerial roots toward the pole. Aerial roots that wander elsewhere can be tucked into the pot or trimmed.
4 Feeding and repotting
- ✓Feed with a balanced houseplant fertiliser every two to four weeks in spring and summer
- ✓Repot every one to two years in spring, one pot size up
- ✓Use a chunky mix with bark and perlite for good drainage
- ✓Wipe the leaves occasionally so dust does not block light
5 A note on safety
Monstera leaves and stems contain calcium oxalate crystals, which irritate the mouth and stomach if chewed. Keep plants out of reach of pets and small children who like to nibble.
This is general gardening information. Results depend on your climate, soil, and conditions. Follow label directions for any fertiliser or treatment, and check whether plants are toxic to pets or children before bringing them home.