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The Monstera doesn't get its name by accident. Their proportions can actually become "monstrous" over time. Then repotting them requires strength and large pots. Here you can find out how to optimally adjust the pot size to your Monstera.
In a nutshell
- most window leaves are very large
- there are some smaller permanent breeds
- Growth per year depends on location and care
- Growth can hardly be restricted
- in old age it is difficult to repot the Monstera
Basic information about window leaves
Monstera don't form a real stem, but a long, non-woody shoot from which the leaves sprout on long stalks. Whether the plant will branch depends in part on the strain. The leaves are large and slit or perforated. Hence the name window leaf. In the lower part, the plant forms long aerial roots over time. In the upper area, the plant continues to grow and climb. Even the ceiling cannot stop it, the Monstera then continues to grow crookedly.
pot size
Even with a young plant, the pot size of the Monstera must not be too small for the window leaf. There are three reasons for this:
- the plant needs sufficient root space
- a climbing aid needs space
- the window leaf becomes heavy over time and needs a firm footing
Notice: If a young plant is bought, it can still be on the window sill for the first year. Later, the Monstera is almost always on the ground.
growth per year
How fast and how much a Monstera grows per year is difficult to generalize. It depends on whether she likes the location and how well she is cared for. If the plant is too sunny and too dry, it will die and grow poorly. Shady but bright locations and high humidity combined with a high supply of nutrients ensure faster growth.
Notice: However, places that are too shady and dark can also cause the monstera to grow more slowly.
repot
In the first few years, the Monstera is repotted every spring before growth begins. For this we use a pot size for the Monstera that is around 10% larger than the old pot. The volume is suitable as a starting value, but also the diameter of the old pot.
With older and very large plants, it becomes increasingly difficult to repot them. It often requires the help of several people. Not only because of the weight of the plant, but also because it is becoming increasingly unwieldy. If the monstera can no longer be moved, it is sufficient to replace the top layer of soil in the pot.
frequently asked Questions
Which substrate is suitable for the window leaf?The Monstera needs permeable, nutrient-rich substrate. Garden soil and compost are also suitable, clay granules improve the permeability of loamy soil.
What should the cachepot be like?It must be as heavy as possible so that the plant cannot tip over. It is helpful if the pot size of the monstera is a few centimeters larger in diameter than the inner pot. Then the planter can be filled with stones and water. This increases the humidity and the aerial roots can also find their place in it.
Can the aerial roots be removed?Old and dried up aerial roots can be removed. The others should be preserved as long as they do not massively disturb the plant. It absorbs nutrients and water via the aerial roots.
Can you trim the window leaf?If it gets too big, it is even advisable. The main shoot can be cut at any height. The plant will sprout again and sometimes branch out. Removed leaves are suitable for propagation.