The Monstera deliciosa, often called the Swiss Cheese Plant, enters its most active growth phase during the summer months. This period of rapid expansion and higher ambient temperatures requires increased watering to support the plant’s metabolic rate. Determining the correct frequency is not about adhering to a rigid schedule, but rather about observation. The actual watering time must be dictated by the condition of the soil, as hydration needs fluctuate daily based on the immediate environment.
Reading the Soil for Optimal Timing
The most reliable way to determine if your Monstera is thirsty is by conducting a dryness test directly on the soil. Monsteras thrive when the top layer of their potting mix is allowed to dry out completely before being rewatered. Insert your index finger about two to three inches deep into the soil near the center of the pot. If the soil at that depth feels damp or cool, wait a few more days before watering. If the soil feels dry and crumbly, it is time to thoroughly saturate the root ball. A soil moisture meter can provide a numerical reading of the moisture level, removing guesswork. The goal is always to ensure the top portion of the soil has dried out to prevent the roots from sitting in saturated conditions.
Environmental Factors that Change Watering Frequency
The rate at which the soil dries out, and thus your watering frequency, is altered by summer environmental conditions. Higher light intensity increases photosynthesis, causing the plant to draw more water through transpiration. Elevated temperatures cause water to evaporate more quickly from the soil surface and pot material. A plant sitting in a warm, bright room will need water sooner than one placed in a cooler, dimmer location.
Low humidity pulls moisture from the leaves and soil much faster than a humid environment. The type and size of the container further influence water retention. Porous materials like terra cotta wick moisture away, causing the soil to dry faster than in plastic or glazed ceramic pots. Larger plants with extensive root systems deplete the water supply more quickly than smaller specimens.
Ensuring Successful Watering and Avoiding Overwatering
When the soil test indicates it is time to water, the technique used is important to ensure the entire root system is hydrated. The best approach is the “soak and drain” method, which involves pouring water slowly over the entire surface of the soil until it runs freely out of the drainage holes at the bottom. This ensures the entire root ball is uniformly saturated and prevents dry pockets from forming.
After the initial soak, wait about 15 to 20 minutes and then immediately empty any excess water collected in the drainage saucer. Leaving the Monstera sitting in residual water is a common cause of root rot, which occurs when roots are deprived of oxygen.
Overwatered plants often display yellowing leaves, especially on the older, lower foliage, and may develop soft, dark spots or mushy stems. Conversely, an underwatered Monstera will show signs like drooping leaves, crispy brown edges, and leaves that curl inward to conserve moisture. Monitoring these visual cues in conjunction with the soil test helps maintain the necessary balance for a healthy plant.