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Have a swiss cheese plant that needs to be repotted? Don’t be nervous! Here’s how to repot a monstera deliciosa!
I finally got around to repotting my monstera deliciosa – something I had been putting off for quite a while because I was nervous about damaging her. But, I did it! And, I documented the experience for you. So, if you’ve been wondering how to repot a monstera, wonder no more.
And, if you don’t have one of these lovely plants in your life, what are you even doing? They’re cat-friendly, easy to care for, and really pretty to look at. Easily my favorite plant in my house!
Step 1 – When to Repot a Monstera
First things first, when should you repot a monstera? The best time to repot plants is during the spring because this is when active growth begins. Plants are dormant in the winter which means you likely won’t see much new growth then.
So, always wait until spring or summer to repot if you can wait. There are always exceptions to the rule, of course.
The other “when” factor has to do with the plant’s size. Monsteras typically only need to be repotted every 1-2 years when it becomes root-bound and cramped in the existing container.
Step 2 – What Size Pot?
A general rule of thumb is to go up 1-2″ in diameter when you’re repotting and no more than that.
How to Repot a Monstera
Step 3
Scoop out as much of the existing soil as possible so you can pull the monstera out more easily.
Step 4
After removing as much soil as possible, turn the pot on its side and put your hand into the soil as far as you can to “scoop” the plant out as close to the bottom as possible.
Alternatively, you could gently pull on the plant as close as possible to the roots, but that makes me too nervous.
Depending on the size of your monstera, you may need two sets of hands, but I was able to do this one on my own.
Next, loosen the root ball. Break up the soil and pull away as much as possible while detangling the roots as much as you can. Don’t be shy but don’t yank on them either.
Step 5
Take your new pot. Make sure to punch out the drainage holes. Fill it up 1/3-1/2 way with new soil. This will just have to be estimated. I filled mine 1/3 way and placed my monstera in there and it wasn’t quite enough.
Once you place your monstera in the soil, start filling the rest of the pot with soil. Once it’s somewhat supported, you can place your supporting rods (moss stick, bamboo rods, etc). Continue filling with soil until the roots are completely covered. Pack firmly but not ridiculously tight.
I just use a regular indoor potting soil which is fine, but I’ve seen people use other kinds as well.
My motto is “don’t fix it if it ain’t broke.” And, I was pretty happy with how my roots looked, the rate at which my monstera has grown (even in winter), and the fact that she always seems happy so I’m sticking to this.
Step 6
Water immediately and thoroughly!