If your monstera leaves are not splitting, the most likely answer is that your plant is either still young or not getting enough light. The splits and holes (called fenestrations) only show up on new leaves as the plant matures, so the leaves you have now will not change. The good news is that you can set up your plant so the next leaves have the best chance.
Why monstera leaves split in the first place
Young monstera leaves are usually solid and heart shaped. As the plant grows bigger and sturdier, it starts producing leaves with holes and deep splits. Once a leaf has unfurled, its shape is fixed. That means everything we do below is about the next leaf, not the current ones.
1. Your monstera is still young
Age and size are the biggest factors. Most plants need a year or two of steady growth, sometimes longer, before they start to split. A small plant on a short stem simply is not ready yet. If your monstera is healthy and pushing new leaves, patience is often the whole answer.
2. It needs more light
Light is the most common fixable cause. In dim rooms, monstera tends to stay leggy with small, solid leaves. Aim for a spot with bright, indirect light, such as near an east or south facing window with a sheer curtain. Direct afternoon sun can scorch leaves, so filtered light is the goal. In a dark Canadian winter, a grow light can help fill the gap. Wipe dusty leaves with a damp cloth so they can use the light they get.
3. The plant has nothing to climb
In nature, monstera climbs trees. Indoors, a moss pole or sturdy stake gives it something to grip and encourages upright, bigger growth. Many growers find that supported plants produce larger leaves than ones left to sprawl.
4. Watering or root problems are holding it back
A plant that is constantly soggy or bone dry will slow down, and a slow plant will not invest in fancy leaves. Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry, and make sure the pot drains. If your monstera has been in the same pot for years and roots are circling or poking out of the bottom, it may be time to repot. Our step-by-step repotting guide walks through it. For root support after repotting, take a look at our roots and repotting collection.
5. It is running low on nutrients
Potted plants use up what is in their soil, and old potting mix runs out of steam. A monstera that has stopped producing new leaves, or has pale older leaves, may simply be hungry. Feeding will not force splits, because age and light still lead the way, but a well fed plant is better able to keep growing and reach maturity.
For monstera we use our Monstera Formula. It mixes Growth Fuel, Root Builder and Microbe Boost. Here is the approved recipe:
- 2 scoops Growth Fuel
- 1 scoop Root Builder
- 1 scoop Microbe Boost
- 1 gallon of water
Add all scoops to 1 gallon of water, stir until dissolved and water your plant thoroughly. Use it every 3 weeks during spring and summer. See the full recipe, including amounts per pot size, on the Monstera Formula page.
It is November, so we are not mixing this up right now. In winter we slow down and keep things gentle. We explain why in our winter fertilizing post.
A quick checklist
- Is the plant at least a year or two old and growing steadily?
- Does it get bright, indirect light for most of the day?
- Does it have a pole or stake to climb?
- Is the soil drying out a little between waterings, with good drainage?
- Is the pot big enough, and the soil fresh enough, for the roots?
If you can answer yes to all five, give it time. New leaves usually tell the story first.
FAQ
Will my current leaves split if I fix the light?
No. Existing leaves keep their shape. Improved conditions only affect new leaves that have not unfurled yet.
How long until I see splits?
It varies a lot with plant age, light and overall care. Watch the next few new leaves for small notches or holes, which are the first signs.
Can fertilizer make my monstera split?
Not on its own. Fertilizer supports healthy growth, but maturity and light matter most. Our products are formulated exclusively for indoor houseplants.