Monstera plants are popular indoor companions. While adaptable, their needs shift with the change in seasons, especially in winter. Adjusting your Monstera’s care routine during colder months is important for its health and vibrant appearance.
Light and Temperature Adjustments
As daylight hours shorten and light intensity diminishes in winter, Monstera plants require light adjustments. Move your Monstera closer to a south-facing window for maximum natural sunlight. If natural light is insufficient, use supplemental grow lights, such as LEDs, for 10-14 hours daily.
Maintaining appropriate temperatures is important for Monstera in winter. These tropical plants thrive in a consistent range, ideally between 64°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause stress, leading to leaf discoloration and slowed growth. Keep your Monstera away from cold drafts from windows, doors, or heating vents, as sudden fluctuations can harm the plant.
Watering and Humidity Management
Monstera’s watering needs decrease in winter due to slower growth and reduced evaporation. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry completely before watering to prevent overwatering and root rot. Check soil moisture by inserting a finger two to three inches deep. While some suggest watering every two to three weeks, frequency depends on environmental factors, so checking the soil directly is best.
Winter indoor heating systems often lower humidity, which challenges Monsteras that thrive in 60-80% humidity. To counteract dry air, use a humidifier near the plant to maintain 40-60% humidity. Grouping plants can also create a more humid microclimate. Misting offers a temporary boost but is not a substitute for consistent humidity and should be done in the morning to allow leaves to dry before nightfall.
Fertilization and Pest Prevention
During winter, Monstera plants enter a period of slowed growth or dormancy, so their nutrient requirements are reduced. Reduce or completely stop fertilization during these months to avoid nutrient buildup and potential root burn. If your Monstera shows active growth, especially with supplemental grow lights, fertilize sparingly with a diluted solution (half or quarter strength) about once a month. Over-fertilizing during dormancy can harm the plant.
Winter conditions, particularly dry indoor air, can make Monsteras susceptible to certain pests. Common culprits include spider mites (thriving in dry environments, causing yellow speckling), mealybugs (tiny, powdery white insects leading to wilting and yellowing), and thrips. Regular inspection of leaves, especially the undersides, helps in early detection. Address infestations promptly with methods like wiping leaves with diluted insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.
Troubleshooting Common Winter Problems
Even with adjusted care, Monsteras can exhibit signs of distress during winter. Yellowing leaves are a common issue, often indicating improper soil moisture, particularly overwatering, due to slower drying times in cooler temperatures. Insufficient light can also lead to yellowing, as the plant struggles to photosynthesize adequately. If yellowing occurs, assess soil moisture and light levels, allowing the soil to dry more between waterings and ensuring adequate indirect light.
Browning leaf tips or edges typically point to low humidity or inconsistent watering. Dry air from indoor heating systems can cause leaf margins to crisp. Increasing humidity through humidifiers or pebble trays can help. Conversely, browning can also signal underwatering, where the plant is not receiving enough moisture. Ensuring consistent, thorough watering when the top soil layer is dry can mitigate this.
Drooping leaves can be a symptom of either too much or too little water. If the soil is excessively wet, roots may struggle to absorb oxygen, leading to wilting. If the soil is too dry, the plant becomes dehydrated. Cold damage or sudden temperature drops can also cause drooping. Checking soil moisture and ensuring the plant is in a stable, warm environment away from drafts are initial steps to resolve drooping.