The Split Leaf Philodendron (Monstera deliciosa) is a popular houseplant known for its impressive, fenestrated foliage, often called “Swiss cheese” leaves. As an aroid, this tropical climber exhibits a vigorous growth habit; it will quickly outgrow its container and exhaust the soil’s resources over time. Repotting provides the plant with fresh nutrients and adequate space, ensuring its continued healthy development. Correct repotting techniques are specific to this plant’s needs and help mitigate the stress of the process.
Recognizing the Need for a New Home
A Monstera deliciosa will display several clear indicators when its root system has become too dense for its current container, a condition known as being rootbound. The most direct sign is when thick, white roots begin to emerge visibly from the pot’s drainage holes, or when a dense mat of roots is visible on the soil surface. This confirms the root mass has completely occupied the available space. Another indicator is a significant change in the plant’s watering needs.
If water runs straight through the soil almost immediately after being poured, it suggests the root ball is so compacted that it cannot absorb moisture effectively. A rootbound plant may exhibit stalled growth, producing smaller leaves or a complete lack of new foliage, despite consistent care and lighting. Repotting should occur during the plant’s active growing season, in early spring or early summer, to allow for faster recovery and establishment.
Gathering the Right Materials
When selecting a new container, choose one that is only 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter than the previous pot. Using a pot that is significantly larger can cause the soil to retain too much moisture around the root ball, increasing the risk of root rot. The pot must have sufficient drainage holes to prevent standing water.
The Monstera requires a chunky, well-aerated potting mix that mimics its natural epiphytic environment, allowing for rapid drainage and air circulation around the roots. A suitable aroid mix can be created by blending standard indoor potting soil with coarse components like orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir. These materials prevent the mix from compacting and ensure that the roots do not sit in overly saturated soil. Given the climbing nature of this plant, a sturdy support, such as a moss pole, should also be prepared for installation during the repotting process.
Step-by-Step Repotting Guide
Water the Monstera a day or two in advance; this helps the plant better withstand the stress of the transition, and moist soil makes the root ball easier to handle. To remove the plant, turn the pot on its side, gently supporting the plant’s stem near the base, and tap the container until the entire root ball slides out. Once free, carefully examine the root ball for any tightly circling roots, which should be gently massaged and teased apart with your fingers to encourage them to grow outward into the new soil.
If the roots are extremely dense, a few light vertical cuts on the outer edges of the root ball can help loosen them, and any dark, soft, or mushy roots should be trimmed away with clean shears to prevent the spread of disease. Place a layer of the prepared potting mix into the new container and position the plant so that the original soil line will sit about one inch below the rim of the new pot.
When adding the support, insert the moss pole directly behind the main stem, ensuring it is secure before filling the rest of the pot with soil. As you fill the space around the root ball, carefully direct any long aerial roots down into the fresh soil, or against the moss pole. Do not bury the plant’s stem deeper than it was previously, as this can lead to rot at the base. Gently tap the pot on the ground a few times to settle the soil and eliminate large air pockets, ensuring the plant is stable in its new home.
Post-Repotting Recovery
Immediately after the repotting process is complete, thoroughly water the plant until the water freely drains from the bottom of the pot. This deep watering settles the new soil around the roots and eliminates any remaining air pockets. The plant should then be moved to a location that receives bright, indirect light, but avoid placing it directly in intense sunlight for the first week or two.
It is normal for the Monstera to display temporary signs of transplant shock, such as minor leaf droop or yellowing of older leaves, as its roots adjust to the new environment. During this recovery period, do not fertilize the plant; the fresh potting mix contains sufficient nutrients, and adding more too soon can burn the newly forming roots. Wait at least four to six weeks before resuming any regular feeding schedule. Check the soil moisture regularly, as the larger pot will likely take longer to dry out.