How To Grow Monstera Tall

If you want to know how to grow monstera tall, you’re in the right place. Achieving impressive height with your Monstera deliciosa is all about understanding its natural habits and providing the right support. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to encourage your plant to reach its full, majestic potential.

Growing a tall Monstera isn’t just about waiting. It’s an active process of mimicking the tropical conditions it loves. When you get the basics right, your plant will reward you with rapid, vertical growth and those stunning, split leaves.

Start with the Right Foundation: Potting Mix and Pot

Your Monstera’s roots need a perfect home to support upward growth. A poor mix can lead to stunted plants.

Use a well-draining, chunky aroid mix. You can make your own by combining:

Regular potting soil for nutrients.
Orchid bark for chunkiness and air flow.
Perlite or pumice to prevent compaction.
A handful of horticultural charcoal to keep the mix fresh.

Choose a pot with excellent drainage holes. The pot size matters too; a pot that’s slightly too large can cause the plant to focus on roots instead of height. Repot only when you see roots circling the bottom.

The Non-Negotiable: Providing Strong Support

In the wild, Monsteras are climbing plants. They use aerial roots to attach themselves to trees and climb towards the light. Without support, your plant will grow outwards, not upwards.

You have a few great options for support:

Moss Pole: The best choice. Aerial roots can attach to it and absorb moisture.
Coco Coir Pole: Similar to a moss pole and works very well.
Wooden Plank or Stake: A simple, effective option for the plant to climb.

To attach your plant, use soft plant ties or strips of fabric. Never use wire that can cut into the stems. Gently secure the main stem to the pole, checking ties regularly as the plant thickens.

Mastering Light for Vertical Growth

Light is the primary fuel for growth. A Monstera in low light will become leggy as it stretches weakly for sun, but it won’t grow tall and strong.

Place your plant in bright, indirect light. An east or west-facing window is often ideal. A few hours of gentle morning sun is beneficial.

If your light is limited, consider a grow light. Position it a few feet above the plant for 6-8 hours a day. This can make a dramatic difference in growth speed and leaf size.

Watering and Feeding for Height

Consistent care prevents stress, which halts growth. Your goal is to keep the plant steadily growing without interruption.

Watering: Water deeply when the top few inches of soil are dry. Ensure water flows out the drainage holes. Then, let it dry out somewhat before watering again. Overwatering is a major cause of root rot and stalled growth.

Feeding: During the spring and summer, feed your Monstera every 4-6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Dilute it to half strength to avoid burning the roots. In fall and winter, reduce feeding to once every 8-10 weeks or stop altogether.

The Role of Humidity

While Monsteras can adapt to average home humidity, they thrive with more. Higher humidity supports larger leaves and encourages those aerial roots to reach out for support.

You can increase humidity by:

Using a humidifier nearby.
Placing the pot on a pebble tray with water.
Grouping it with other plants.

Strategic Pruning for a Taller Plant

Pruning might seem counterintuitive, but it’s a powerful tool. It directs the plant’s energy to your main growing stem.

Identify the main stem you want to grow tall.
Prune away any small, weak, or damaged growth at the base.
You can also trim very long, leafless aerial roots if they are unmanageable, but it’s better to train them back to the moss pole.
Always use clean, sharp scissors to make clean cuts.

Troubleshooting Stunted Growth

If your Monstera isn’t getting taller, check these common issues:

Root Bound: Roots tightly packed in the pot have no room to grow. Time to repot.
Pests: Check for spider mites or scale, which sap the plant’s energy. Treat promptly with insecticidal soap.
Insufficient Light: This is the number one cause. Move your plant to a brighter location.
Lack of Support: The plant has nothing to climb. Add a moss pole and attach it properly.

FAQ: Your Monstera Height Questions Answered

How fast does a Monstera grow tall?

In ideal conditions, a Monstera can grow 1-2 feet per growing season. Growth slows in fall and winter.

Should I cut the small leaves off my Monstera?

You can remove very small, old leaves at the bottom to direct energy upward. But leave most healthy leaves, as they are the engines for growth.

Why is my Monstera growing sideways?

This is a clear sign it needs a support pole. The plant is searching for something to climb. Gently train it onto a moss pole.

Does misting help my Monstera grow?

Misting has minimal long-term effect on humidity and can promote leaf fungus. A humidifier or pebble tray is a more effective method for consistent humidity.

When should I repot for maximum height?

Repot in spring or early summer when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes or when growth seems stalled despite good care. Always go up just one pot size, about 2 inches larger in diameter.

Growing a tall, impressive Monstera is a rewarding journey. By providing the right light, sturdy support, and consistent care, you’ll create the perfect environment for it to soar. Pay attention to it’s signals, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly it can reach for the ceiling. With these tips, your indoor jungle centerpiece is well on its way.