If you’ve ever wondered why your Monstera has holes, you’re not alone. Those iconic splits and windows in the leaves, called fenestrations, are the hallmark of these tropical favorites. Understanding why they form and how to encourage them is key to growing a happy, healthy plant.
Monstera Holes
Those distinctive Monstera holes aren’t just for looks; they serve a clever purpose. In their natural rainforest habitat, these plants grow on the forest floor and climb tall trees. The fenestrations allow wind to pass through large leaves without tearing them and let sunlight filter down to the lower leaves. It’s a brilliant bit of natural engineering.
Why Your Monstera Might Not Have Holes
It’s frustrating when a new leaf unfurls without any splits. Don’t worry—this is normal. Juvenile Monsteras often have solid, heart-shaped leaves. Fenestrations typically appear as the plant matures. If your mature plant is still producing solid leaves, a few key factors could be the cause:
- Insufficient Light: This is the most common reason. Monsteras need bright, indirect light to produce fenestrated leaves.
- Young Age: The plant simply may not be old enough yet. Patience is required.
- Nutrient Deficiency: A lack of essential nutrients can slow maturity and fenestration.
- Inadequate Support: Without a moss pole or stake to climb, the plant may not trigger its mature, fenestrated growth phase.
How to Get More Fenestrations on Your Plant
To encourage those beautiful Monstera holes, you need to mimic the plant’s ideal tropical conditions. Here’s your action plan:
1. Provide Plenty of Indirect Light
Place your Monstera near a bright window, but out of direct, harsh sun which can scorch the leaves. An east or west-facing window is often perfect. If light is low, consider a grow light.
2. Let it Climb
Give your plant a moss pole or sturdy trellis. As it climbs upwards, it will sense it’s reaching for light and is more likely to product larger, fenestrated leaves. Secure the stems gently with plant ties.
3. Feed it Regularly
During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize your Monstera every 4-6 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. This provides the energy for big, perforated leaf growth.
4. Perfect Your Watering
Water deeply when the top few inches of soil feel dry, then let excess water drain away completely. Avoid both soggy soil and letting the plant wilt severely.
Common Problems with Monstera Leaves
Even with good care, issues can pop up. Here’s how to troubleshoot common leaf problems:
- Yellow Leaves: Often a sign of overwatering. Check your soil moisture and ensure the pot has drainage holes.
- Brown, Crispy Edges: Usually caused by low humidity or underwatering. Increase moisture in the air with a humidifier or pebble tray.
- Small Leaves Without Holes: A classic sign of too little light. Move your plant to a brighter location.
- Black Spots or Soft Areas: Can indicate root rot from overwatering. You may need to check the roots and repot in fresh soil.
Step-by-Step Repotting Guide
Repotting every 1-2 years gives your Monstera room to grow. Follow these steps:
- Choose a new pot only 2 inches wider than the current one, with drainage holes.
- Prepare a well-draining potting mix, like an aroid mix or regular potting soil amended with perlite and orchid bark.
- Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosening the roots slightly if they’re tightly wound.
- Place some fresh mix in the new pot, set the plant in, and fill around the sides with more mix.
- Water thoroughly to settle the soil, and return the plant to its usual spot.
FAQ About Monstera Fenestrations
Q: At what age do Monsteras get holes?
A: There’s no set age, but it often happens when the plant is 2-3 years old and has produced several mature leaves.
Q: Can I cut the small leaves without holes?
A: You can, but it’s better to leave them. They still contribute energy to the plants overall growth through photosynthesis.
Q: Do all Monstera varieties get holes?
A: Most do, but the pattern varies. Monstera adansonii has many smaller holes, while Monstera borsigiana has larger splits. Some rarer forms have unique fenestration patterns.
Q: Is it bad if my Monstera has no splits?
A: Not necessarily. The plant can still be healthy. It’s usually a sign that it’s not yet in its ideal conditions to trigger mature growth.
Caring for Your Plant Long-Term
Consistency is the secret to a spectacular Monstera. Keep it in a stable spot with good light, water when needed, and wipe the leaves dust occasionally so they can absorb maximum light. Rotate the pot a quarter turn every time you water to promote even growth. With time and the right care, your Monstera will reward you with those stunning, fenestrated leaves that make these plants so special. Remember, gardening is a journey, and each new leaf is a sign of your succes.