I've had my Monstera deliciosa for four years now and it stands at 4ft tall, around double the height it was when I first got it. I've been able to encourage strong and robust growth by providing the right seasonal care, and when it comes to what to do with a monstera in June, there are a handful of tasks to tick off.
Of course, monstera care is important to maintain year-round. But in June, as summer temperatures start to settle in, monsteras need more water, a boost of fertilizer, and some support (I like to use these Amazon moss poles) as they begin to flop from new growth. Failing to do these things can result in drooping and even the gradual decline of your plant.
To help you keep your statement houseplant in fit condition this summer, I've pulled together the top three things to do with your monstera this month. (And just in case you're in the market for a new one, this monstera from Fast Growing Trees is incredible value and is discounted right now.)
1. Water More Regularly
Hotter temperatures mean your monstera is drying out much more quickly than in spring. That's why you need to increase watering frequency this month to keep it sufficiently hydrated.
I never water my houseplants without first checking the soil with my soil moisture meter (I have this one from Amazon and it's proven very reliable).
While monsteras can cope with some drought (especially as they become more mature), they much prefer consistent moisture levels. As soon as my moisture meter indicates the top couple of inches of soil are dry, I give my monstera a top up.
'We water every week by mid-June,' says Anup Mutalik, founder of Houseplants Nook.
'But, you have to be very careful though, as overwatering is the number one way to kill a plant. You should check the soil a couple of times a week and water accordingly. Each house has different temperature, humidity, and light placement, which impacts how quickly the soil dries out,' he explains.
Leaving your monstera in prolonged drought can result in heat stress, including yellow monstera leaves and drooping.
2. Install a Plant Support
You've likely spotted some new growth on your monstera over the last few months, as it's entered its active growth season. As climbers, these tropical beauties needs some support as they grow taller.
It's important to start training a monstera early on if you want to achieve a neat, upright look. But, don't worry, it is possible to train an overgrown monstera too.
I personally like to use moss or coco poles (like these from BWH Plant Co.) to support my monstera. It should be placed on the 'spine' or main, thickest stem of the plant, with branching stems gently tied in.
The beauty of a moss pole is its bendable for a bespoke fit to the shape of your plant and when wet it provides some humidity and moisture.
You can also use these charming houseplant trellises from IKEA, especially if you have a smaller monstera variety, like the Monstera adansonii (which is also available at IKEA).
It's best to put a plant support in place now before the warmer temps encourage a growth spurt. This will prevent top-heavy stems flopping over and snapping, as well as improving light exposure to all leaves to maintain and encourage monstera split leaves, or 'fenestrations.'
3. Give It a Boost of Fertilizer
If you haven't done so already, June is a good time to start fertilizing your monstera.
When putting on so much new growth, these plants can become tired and nutrients in the soil can deplete. That's why I like to use a monstera-specific liquid fertilizer (like this from Amazon) to provide a boost of essential plant nutrients during spring and summer.
'We fertilize every 3-4 weeks through June and July with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength,' says Anup.
'Monsteras are sensitive to fertilizer burn, and a full-strength dose in summer heat on a plant that's pushing out new growth aggressively can damage the leaves you're trying to grow,' he notes.
It would be a fertilizing mistake to overfeed your monstera during hotter temps, as Anup notes. It can leave you with crispy brown tips on your monstera leaves, and it may damage roots so severely it kills off the plant.
You can also opt for a granular slow-release houseplant fertilizer (like this from Amazon) which provides a more gradual feed over several weeks. This is much less intense than a liquid feed and reduces the risk of root burn.
What to Shop
This fertilizer is a special blend for monsteras, supporting active growth for bigger, brighter leaves. Apply once a month during spring and summer.
These moss poles are ideal for supporting tall monstera stems. They can be bent to the shape of your plant's silhouette. They measure 30 inches in height.
This Monstera deliciosa arrives 22-24" tall at time of delivery. It comes in a planter of your choice.
Spring and summer is also an optimal time to propagate your monstera. You can do this either by diving clumps or by taking stem cuttings and popping them in water. Always use clean, sharp tools for this, like these Fiskars bypass pruning shears from Amazon.
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