Will it get dehydrated and dry out and die while you are away? Find out below.
How Long Can Monstera Go Without Water
A Monstera plant can go about 5-7 days without water, while a young one may require water every 3-5 days. However, it’s not recommended to let the soil dry out completely.
If the soil is too dry, the plant may start to droop, and the leaves may turn brown, which may cause serious damage or even death to the plant.
The length of time that a Monstera plant can go without water will vary depending on factors such as the size of the plant, the size of the pot, the humidity and temperature of the environment, and the type of soil.
How Often Should I Water a Monstera?
The frequency of watering a Monstera plant will depend on factors such as the size of the plant, the size of the pot, the humidity and temperature of the environment, and the type of soil.
As a general rule, a mature Monstera plant should be watered once a week, and a young one twice a week. However, it’s important to check the soil moisture before watering, as this can vary depending on the conditions.
It’s important to make sure the soil is well-draining, and to avoid over-watering, which can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot.
One way to check if the soil is too dry or too wet is by inserting your finger into the soil, if it feels dry one inch below the surface, it’s time to water.
It’s also important to keep an eye on the plant’s leaves, if they start to droop or turn brown, it’s a sign that the plant needs more water. Additionally, the plant will tell you when it needs water by wilting, or the leaves get brown tips.
There are a few signs that a Monstera plant may be dehydrated:
Drooping Leaves: If the leaves of a Monstera plant are drooping, it is a sign that the plant is not getting enough water.
Dry, Crispy Leaves: If the leaves of a Monstera plant feel dry and crispy to the touch, it is a sign that the plant is dehydrated.
Brown Leaf Tips: If the tips of the leaves are turning brown, it’s a sign that the plant is not getting enough water or that the air is too dry.
Slow Growth: If the plant is not growing as fast as it should, it could be a sign that it’s not getting enough water.
Wilting: If the leaves look wilted, it’s a sign that the plant is not getting enough water.
It’s important to note that these signs can also indicate other issues such as over-watering, under-watering, pests or diseases, so it’s essential to check the plant and its environment to figure out the cause of the problem.
Below is a picture showing one of my monsteras that has signs of dehydration.
Can Monstera Survive a Drought?
Yes, a Monstera plant may go into a dormant state, slowing down its growth and shedding leaves in order to conserve water. If the drought persists, the plant may become severely dehydrated, and the leaves may turn brown, droop, and eventually fall off.
If you live in an area prone to drought, it’s important to take steps to protect your Monstera plant by giving it enough water during the dry periods, and also by providing shade and protection from the sun, which can dehydrate the plant more quickly.
It’s also important to mulch the soil to retain moisture and also using drip irrigation systems can be helpful.
Should I Let My Monstera Dry Out Completely?
It’s not recommended to let the soil of a Monstera plant dry out completely. Monstera plants prefer well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist, but they do not like to dry out completely or be waterlogged.
If the soil of a Monstera plant is allowed to dry out completely, the plant may start to droop, and the leaves may turn brown, which can indicate serious damage or even death of the plant.
When the soil is too dry, the roots of the plant will not be able to absorb enough water and nutrients, and the plant will suffer from lack of hydration.
It’s important to check the soil moisture before watering, if the top inch of soil is dry it’s time to water, if it’s still damp, wait a bit longer.
It’s also important to note that over-watering can be just as harmful to the plant as under-watering, leading to waterlogged soil and root rot.
How Dry Should I Let My Monstera Get?
It’s not recommended to let the soil of a Monstera plant dry out completely, the soil should be kept consistently moist. The ideal soil moisture level for a Monstera plant is around 50-70% humidity.
It’s also important to note that the watering schedule will depend on factors such as the size of the plant, the size of the pot, the humidity and temperature of the environment, and the type of soil.
A mature Monstera plant should be watered once a week, and a young one twice a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Monstera Go 2 Weeks Without Water?
No, It’s not recommended to let the soil dry out completely or go more than a week without watering. If a Monstera plant goes 2 weeks without water, it may become severely dehydrated and the leaves may turn brown, droop, and eventually fall off. This can cause serious damage or even death to the plant.
It’s important to note that the frequency of watering will depend on factors such as the size of the plant, the size of the pot, the humidity and temperature of the environment, and the type of soil. A mature Monstera plant should be watered once a week, and a young one twice a week.
It’s also important to check the soil moisture before watering, if the top inch of soil is dry it’s time to water, if it’s still damp, wait a bit longer.
Should You Mist Your Monstera Everyday?
Misting a Monstera plant with water can help to increase humidity and provide some moisture to the leaves, but it should not be done every day as it’s not a substitute for proper watering.
Over misting can also lead to waterlogged soil and root rot. It’s best to mist a Monstera plant occasionally, and check the soil moisture before watering. Misting once or twice a week is usually sufficient, but it’s important to observe the plant, and adjust the schedule accordingly.
Can I Water a Monstera With Tap Water?
You can water a Monstera plant with tap water, but it’s best to let the water sit for a day or two before using it to allow chlorine and other chemicals to evaporate. Some tap water contains high levels of dissolved minerals that can build up in the soil over time, and may harm the plant in the long run. Using filtered or distilled water is a better option, or rainwater is the best option.
Hi, my name is Amy Enrich and I have had a keen green thumb since my parents first taught me how to sow a sunflower seed. The process of watching it grow from seed to sprout, sprout to shoot, and then to a full-blown plant is a wonderful sight - I never get bored of it!
I love talking to anyone who will listen about plants, different varieties, how to look after them, and more. That is why I have created Plant Vessel, to help other plant lovers look after their new family members properly and keep them thriving!
Please stick around and enjoy my plant content, and don’t blame me if it influences you to go and buy some more plants!
