Plant Care

How to Water a Monstera: Complete Watering Guide

Last updated: October 30, 2025

Learn exactly how often to water your monstera with seasonal schedules, signs to watch for, and troubleshooting tips for perfect hydration.

JJessica Chen

October 30, 2025

Person watering healthy monstera plant with copper watering can showing proper watering technique — — Image © PlantReference.org 2026

Quick Answer

Water monstera when top 1-2 inches of soil dry. Check soil moisture weekly during growing season, every two weeks in winter.

TL;DR

Water your monstera when the top 1-2 inches (3-5 cm) of soil is dry, typically every 7-10 days in summer and every 2-3 weeks in winter. Use the finger test or a moisture meter for accuracy, and always empty saucers after 30 minutes to prevent root rot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you water a monstera?

Water your monstera when the top 1-2 inches (3-5 cm) of soil feels dry to the touch. This typically means every 7-10 days during spring and summer growing seasons, and every 2-3 weeks during fall and winter when growth slows. Always check soil moisture rather than following a rigid schedule, as your plant's needs vary with light, temperature, humidity, and pot size.

Do monsteras need a lot of water?

Monsteras prefer deep, infrequent watering rather than frequent light watering. When you do water, saturate the soil thoroughly until water drains from the bottom holes, then allow the top portion to dry before watering again. This mimics their natural rainforest environment where they receive periodic heavy rainfall followed by drying periods.

How do I know if my monstera needs water?

Insert your finger 1-2 inches (3-5 cm) deep into the soil—if it feels dry at that depth, it's time to water. Other signs include slightly drooping leaves, soil pulling away from pot edges, and the pot feeling noticeably lighter than after watering. A moisture meter can provide more precise readings, especially for larger pots.

Can you overwater a monstera?

Yes, overwatering is the most common cause of monstera problems. Signs include yellowing lower leaves, brown spots with yellow halos, musty soil odor, and fungus gnats. Overwatered monsteras develop root rot, which can kill the plant. Always ensure your pot has drainage holes and never let the plant sit in standing water for more than 30 minutes after watering.

Should I mist my monstera leaves?

Misting is not recommended for regular care as it can promote fungal issues without significantly improving humidity. Instead, use a humidifier, pebble tray, or group plants together to increase humidity around your monstera. If you choose to mist occasionally, do so in the morning so leaves dry completely before evening.

Why are my monstera leaves turning yellow after watering?

Yellow leaves after watering typically indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Check that your pot has adequate drainage holes and that water flows freely from the bottom. Reduce watering frequency immediately and ensure the soil dries partially between waterings. If soil stays wet for more than 10 days, repot in fresh, well-draining soil mix.

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Written By

Jessica Chen

Jessica transformed her small Brooklyn balcony into a thriving container garden after moving to New York City. What started as a pandemic hobby turned into a plant care consulting business serving urban apartment dwellers across the city. She specializes in small-space gardening, indoor plant troubleshooting, and helping clients keep houseplants alive in less-than-ideal conditions (dim light, dry heat, tiny spaces). Jessica completed a home gardening certificate program and shares her plant wins and failures on her modest Instagram following. Her partner, Maya, jokes that their apartment is now 40% plants, 60% living space. Jessica's passionate about making plant care accessible to renters who think they don't have room to garden.