Most philodendron lovers, like me, have experienced issues caused by overwatering a Monstera. It is one of the common mistakes that can make this tropical houseplant a bit finicky.
Proper hydration is important for the overall health of the plant. However, besides fulfilling its hydration needs you should learn to avoid the dreaded overwatering pitfall.
Here, I have shared the signs of an over-watered Monstera and their solution to make this beautiful plant stay healthy and happy forever.
What Are the Common Signs of Over-watering?
Your beloved plant will come up with different signs if over-watered. Here are some of them you need to identify to become a Monstera expert.
Symptoms of the Leaves
Yellowing of Leaves
The leaves of a Monstera may turn yellow due to over-watering. This happens because the roots sit constantly in the soggy soil and the plant cannot absorb the essential nutrients properly. You will notice the lower leaves to be turning yellow very fast. Root rot can also make the leaves yellow.
Brown Spots
Brown spots on the leaves with a slightly raised edge can be the result of excess moisture. If this condition is not treated immediately then, the brown spots can spread and turn the entire leaf to be brown.
Shedding of Leaves
Due to water logging the roots are unable to absorb enough oxygen. This could lead to frequent shedding of the leaves. As the plant struggles to survive due to over watering the brown and yellow leaves fall off first.
Droopy or Curled Leaves
You will notice wilted, limp, or leaves that are curling inward. These are the common symptoms of over-watering. This happens when the roots cannot absorb enough water to keep the leaves hydrated due to water logging.
Checking the Soil
- Pots Become Heavy: Water-logged soil can unusually feel heavy, especially after watering the plant. This can help you understand that your Monstera is over-watered.
- Standing Water: Standing water at the bottom of the pot is one of the most common signs of over-watering.
- Unpleasant Smell: Over-watering causes root rot. So, a musty odor coming from the soil indicates the roots are rotted due to excessive watering.
- Stems Turning Mushy: If you notice symptoms like mushy or soft stems, be sure that the Monstera is overwatered.
How to Identify a Monsteraas Watering Needs?
Although this variety of philodendron loves moisture, extra soggy soil is not good for them. Understand the watering needs of this plant below.
Let the Soil Dry Out
You should always water the plant after checking the moisture level of the soil. If the soil feels dry after sticking your finger about 2 inches then, be sure the plant is thirsty. As over-watering causes root rot so, let the soil dry out a little between watering.
Deep Watering
To ensure the roots get enough moisture, you need to make sure the water drains out of the pot completely.
Do Not Water From Above
Watering the plant from the top should be avoided as it may lead to water logging. Always water the soil directly.
What Are the Factors That Affect Your Monsteras Watering Needs?
Some environmental factors can affect the watering needs of a Monstera. Here are some of them.
Humidity
This tropical plant thrives well in normal humid conditions that are not too high or too low. So, if you are in any place with less humidity then, try to water your plant more frequently only after checking the moisture level of the soil.
Humidity can be increased by using a humidifier, a pebble tray filled with water, or by misting the plant from time to time. However, avoid watering a Monstera frequently if, the place you are in has a higher humidity level.
Light
Even though Monsteras love indirect, bright light they can somehow adjust to lower light conditions. However, if the plant is in a low-light location it will need less water than those that are placed in bright, natural light. Here is some additional information on Monstera light conditions that you might find helpful: Monstera Light Needs: Too Much or Too Little?
Temperature
If the temperature of the place where a Monstera is grown is cooler then, the plant’s water needs will decrease. On the other hand, your beloved plant will get thirsty faster in warmer temperatures.
Circulation of Air
Moderate air circulation is necessary to maintain the overall health of the plant and to prevent fungal diseases. However, the soil can dry out faster and you need to water frequently if, there is excessive air circulation.
How to Choose the Right Soil and Pot for a Monstera?
Right size of the pot and the soil used plays an important role in keeping this tropical houseplant healthy and growing. Here, are some tips to help you make the right choice.
The Size of the Pot Matters
The pot you are using to grow a Monstera should be of moderate size that is slightly larger than the root ball. Avoid using very large pots as they can cause waterlogging, leading to root rot. Repot the plant into larger pots as it matures.
Proper Drainage
A pot that does not have enough drainage holes should always be avoided as it can cause water logging and lead to root rot and other diseases. Drainage is the key to a healthy Monstera. So, make sure the pot has enough drainage holes to run away excess water completely.
Composition of the Soil
Try to use a well-draining, aerated soil mix when growing philodendrons. Always use a potting mix designed for indoor plants. The soil mix should contain ingredients like coco coir or perlite to improve aeration and drainage. Heavy soil retains too much moisture. So, avoid using them.
How to Identify Damages and Treat Them When Growing a Monstera?
Identifying the issues your plant is dealing with and treating them should be your priority when growing a Monstera. Here are some of the issues and their solution.
Root Rot
Identifying a root rot is quite easy. A plant with rotted roots will show signs like mushy roots, brown or black patches on roots, and a foul smell coming from the soil. A healthy plant will always have firm roots that are typically light brown or white.
Treatment
- To treat root rot gently remove the plant from the pot.
- Look out for the affected areas that appear mushy, slimy, or dark.
- Cut away the damaged or rotten roots using sterile pruning shears.
- Repot the plant with healthy tissues in a new pot with fresh, well-draining, aerated soil mix. The pot should have enough drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
- After repotting, proper monitoring is necessary for signs of improvement. New and healthy leaves will appear soon if, the root rot has been treated successfully.
Pruning
Pruning a Monstera removes sick and unhealthy parts of the plant and makes it healthy once again. A plant that is suffering due to over-watering has several damaged parts that need to be pruned off.
Pruning Ways
- Look for rotted stems and leaves that are mushy, yellow, or brown.
- Sterilize your pruning tools with rubbing alcohol before using them. This will prevent the spread of the disease.
- Carefully cut off the unhealthy stems and leaves.
- Throw away the affected parts as keeping them near the plant can attract pests and diseases, making the plant sick again.
Ways to Revive an Overwatered Monstera
Even philodendron experts like me often make the common mistake of overwatering a Monstera. So, to bounce back the plant follow the guide shared below.
Stop Watering
To prevent further damage you need to stop watering your Monstera so, that the roots get time to dry out.
Soil Check
Even without watering if the soil feels soggy when you insert your finger into it to check the moisture level, then it’s time for repotting the plant.
Repot
While repotting gently remove the plant from its current pot and remove off any excess soil. Check out for mushy and brown roots that are rotted. Carefully cut the rotten roots using sterilized pruning shears. Now, repot your Monstera in a well-draining, fresh soil mix.
Pruning
For better growth and health of your favorite philodendron remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems.
Provide the Needed Conditions
Make sure the plant receives sufficient indirect, bright light and proper air circulation.
Monitor the Plant
Keep an eye on the plant to check out for any yellow or droopy leaves. You need to adjust your watering schedule if you notice any of these signs.
Preventive Measures
Here are some proper watering techniques to keep your beloved Monstera happy and healthy.
- Letting the soil dry out between watering is very important.
- Watering in the morning is always recommended as the leaves of your plant get time to dry out before nightfall.
- Never water a Monstera from the top. Instead, water the soil directly.
- Use a moisture meter to check if the soil is dry enough before watering again.
- If the pot feels lightweight and the leaves become droopy then, be sure your plant is thirsty.
How to Adjust the Environmental Conditions?
Monitor Monsteras Surrounding
Use a humidifier to increase the humidity level around the plant if, the air is too dry where the plant is placed.
Avoid Frequent Changes in Temperature
Unlike other varieties of philodendrons, a Monstera prefers to stay in steady temperatures. Too cold or too hot and fluctuations in temperature can make the plant a little cranky.
Light Plays a Vital Role
Move your Monstera near a window from which it can get enough indirect, bright light. However, avoid placing the plant in direct scorching sunlight.
Final Touch Up
Monsteras are a tropical plant that loves moisture, but they don’t like to sit in soggy soil. Overwatering is the most common mistake plant lovers make that affects the overall health of the plant.
So, follow the tips and tricks shared in this post to keep this beautiful, tropical plant healthy, growing, and happy forever.
