Monstera Growth Stages Explained

Monsteras are popular indoor plants that stand out with their lush foliage having unique cuts! Growing it involves witnessing various stages that you should be aware of to understand its requirements better.

Monstera (Monstera deliciosa) or “Swiss Cheese Plant”  is a popular houseplant native to tropical rainforests, admired for their large, heart-shaped leaves with holes and splits that develop as the plant matures.

 The plant grows from seeds and cuttings into vines relying on tree supports, which inspired the name “monsteras”, meaning “abnormal growth”.

Monstera growth begins when the seed germinates under warm and humid conditions. Once sprouted, the plant enters the seedling phase, where little leaves emerge from the stems.

For cuttings, take a segment (5-7 inches long) with at least one node. You can plant it in water or soil, both.

Adequate warmth, light, and moisture at this stage help proper root and foliage development.

During the 1-2-year-old juvenile phase, rapid vertical stem growth takes place along with medium sized leaves. At this stage, the folaie will not have the signature cuts and will be flat and in single piece.

The climbing stage involves the monstera anchoring itself via vigorous aerial roots as it scales vertical supports like poles, walls, or trellises. Mature, fenestrated leaves start taking shape at this point.

After around 2 years and above, you will witness the plant in its full, large fenestrated leaves glory! Its iconic split leaves multiply at a steady rate but vertical climbing slows.