When your Monstera is growing a new leaf, you will see a new stem and bud emerging out of the existing plant canopy. The stem will increase in height and the bud at the end of the stem will begin to swell and split open, forming a new leaf.
If you look closely, you will see small ridges forming on the stem, which indicate that the stem is expanding as the leaf grows. You may also notice that the older, existing leaves tend to look a little bit yellow or wilted during the growth process, as the new leaf takes priority for the plant’s nutrients.
Once the new leaf has fully emerged, the older leaves will begin to perk up and the color will deepen, indicating that the plant is growing healthily and successfully.
How often do Monstera get new leaves?
The rate at which Monsteras get new leaves largely depends on the health of the plant and the care it’s receiving. Under the right conditions, Monsteras can get a new leaf every few weeks on average.
However, this can vary based on the plant’s environment, predator pressure, and the age and type of Monstera. Older specimens may produce fewer leaves, while younger ones may produce new leaves more often.
Additionally, the rate of leaf production can be slower during wintertime in temperate climates, or when the environment is dry or lacking in nutrients. To encourage further growth and leaf production, it is important to provide Monsteras with enough light and water.
Fertilizing the soil and pruning away damaged leaves can also help stimulate new leaf production. When taking proper care of Monsteras, you may see a new leaf every few weeks on average.
Why do Monsteras cry?
Monsteras, also known as Swiss Cheese Plants, are known for their unusual tear-like patterns that form on their leaves. This pattern is caused by the natural tearing of the leaf as the plant grows, giving it the nickname of the “Swiss Cheese Plant”.
The tears occur as the leaf matures and the veins that hold it together weaken, often leading to drooping or tears in the surface of the leaf. This is a natural process, as the plant needs to be able to spread out its leaves in order to absorb as much sunlight as possible.
The tears may also be caused by too much moisture, not enough sunlight, or other environmental changes in the location where the plant resides.
Just as with humans, Monsteras need to be well taken care of in order to look their best—which means making sure their soil is moist, but not waterlogged, making sure their leaves aren’t burnt from overexposure to the sun, and ensuring that any damage from pests is quickly addressed.
If the plant is not getting the proper environment or care it needs, the Monstera may start to “cry” due to stress, meaning it will start to produce more of these tears in its leaves.
Do Monsteras like to be misted?
Yes, Monsteras do enjoy being misted. Monsteras are tropical plants, so they prefer humid environments and benefit from regular misting. When misting your Monstera, try to spray the leaves and the soil around the roots.
This helps to maintain humidity in the air around the plant, while also providing extra moisture to the soil. It’s best to mist your Monstera twice a day. Doing so in the morning and just before evening is optimal, but you can mist more or less frequently depending on your plant’s preferred environment.
It’s also important to make sure your Monstera is getting enough light and keeping the soil evenly moist. Over-misting can lead to root rot and other problems, so be sure to pay attention to the soil moisture levels.
How often should you water Monstera?
Watering frequency for Monstera plants will depend on the season and the size of the pot. During the growing season of spring and summer, you’ll want to water your Monstera every 1-2 weeks with enough water that gets through the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot.
During the winter, it’s best to water your Monstera with less frequency, about every 3-4 weeks. If you are unsure, it’s best to do the ‘finger poke’ test. Stick your finger about 1-2 inches into the soil and if the soil is dry, it’s time to water.
It’s important to keep the soil consistently moist to ensure that your Monstera is growing healthily.
How many leaves does a Monstera grow in a year?
The number of leaves that a Monstera grows in a year depends on several factors including the species and the growing environment. For example, some Monstera species have a growth rate of up to one leaf a week, while others may only grow a few leaves in a year.
Additionally, the warmth and amount of sunlight in the environment can also influence their growth rate. A Monstera grown in a warm, sunny spot can grow more leaves than one in a cooler, shadier area.
On average, a Monstera may produce between 10-20 leaves in a year, but this can vary significantly depending on the individual plant.
Why is my Monstera not growing new leaves?
It’s important to look at the other conditions of your plant and the environment it’s in before making assumptions.
One of the most common reasons why Monstera isn’t growing new leaves is because it’s not receiving enough light. Make sure your Monstera is getting at least 12-16 hours of bright, indirect sunlight per day.
You can also supplement with LED grow lights if needed.
It’s also possible that your Monstera isn’t getting enough nutrients. Provide your Monstera with a slow-release balanced fertilizer once a month to ensure it’s getting a well-rounded diet.
Overwatering is also a common reason why Monstera doesn’t grow new leaves. Wait for the first few inches of the soil to dry out before you water your plant again.
Finally, give your Monstera some extra care and attention. Prune away any dead or sick leaves and make sure the stems, soil, and roots to stay healthy. Monstera loves humidity, so mist your plant every so often or place it on top of a humidity tray.
How do you increase Monstera growth?
To increase Monstera growth, you should begin by providing adequate sunlight, soil with excellent drainage, and plenty of humidity. When it comes to sunlight, you should place your Monstera in an area that receives bright, indirect light.
If you live in a location with lower levels of light, you may need to supplement with a grow light. As for soils, make sure to use a soil specifically for Monsteras to ensure it offers enough drainage for proper root growth and aeration.
Monsteras should also be planted in a container with a drainage hole, but make sure to never let the pot sit in water. Finally, Monsteras thrive in humid areas, so if the environment is drier, you should mist your plant regularly or use a humidifier nearby.
Does trimming Monstera promote growth?
Yes, trimming Monstera can promote growth. Pruning Monstera is a great way to maintain a healthy and attractive appearance, promote better air circulation, and stimulate new growth. To trim your Monstera, first identify any dead or damaged leaves that should be removed.
You may also want to shape your plant by removing the topmost leaves and stems, as well as ones growing in an awkward direction. If there is an extensive amount of foliage overgrowth, entire leaves and stems can be snipped off with garden scissors.
Pruning your Monstera will encourage bushier growth and create an aesthetically pleasing shape. Additionally, pruning also encourages stronger, lusher growth and more vigorous root systems. Be sure to keep a clean and sharp pair of scissors to avoid damaging the plant.
Do Monstera leaves grow back?
Yes, Monstera leaves do grow back! Monstera plants have a unique, epiphytic growing habit that allows them to produce new leaves from the same stem. As the Monstera matures, it will form aerial roots which cling to a support structure like a trellis, pole, or moss pole.
As new leaves form, the older ones will die off, but new ones will easily take their place. It is completely normal for Monstera leaves to come and go as the plant matures. If your Monstera leaves are yellowing or wilting prematurely, it may be a sign of nutrient deficiency, underwatering, or overwatering.
Providing adequate lighting, proper moisture levels, and well-draining soil are all important for a healthy Monstera.
Why does my Monstera have small leaves?
One possibility is that the amount of light it is receiving is too low. Monsteras prefer bright, indirect light, so if it is not getting enough of it that can cause the leaves to stay small. Another possibility is underwatering.
Monsteras prefer to have their soil on the moist side, so underwatering can cause the leaves to stay small. It could also be related to a nutrient deficiency. Make sure you are providing your Monstera with balanced fertilizer every month or so to keep it healthy.
Lastly, it could be because the plant is not mature enough yet. When Monsteras first begin to grow, their leaves will be small as the plant is still growing and adjusting to its environment. If all other possibilities have been eliminated, then this could be why your plant’s leaves are small.
Should I cut the small leaves off my Monstera?
It depends on what you’re hoping to achieve with your Monstera. If you’re looking to encourage growth, the small leaves can actually be beneficial in this regard as they help to draw energy and resources to the other, larger leaves.
However, if the small leaves are crowding the aesthetics of your Monstera, or if they are weak or unhealthy, then you may want to consider cutting them off. If you do decide to remove them, make sure you do it carefully, using a pair of sterilized shears to cut them at the base of the petiole (the thin stem linking the leaf to the plant).
Removing the leaves in this manner should help maintain the health of the plant.