How often should you water a Monstera?
In short
For a Monstera growing in potting mix, check the mix before watering rather than following a universal weekly rule. Let it approach dryness, then water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain. Hydroponic plants and newly rooted cuttings need a different approach.
In this guide
When is it time to water?
The RHS recommends letting Monstera potting mix become nearly dry between thorough waterings. Check the mix rather than relying only on the leaf appearance or the calendar. A plant in a different pot or location may dry at a different rate.
Source: RHS: Swiss cheese plants
Give excess water somewhere to go
Use drainage holes and empty collected water so the roots do not remain in a puddle. University of Minnesota Extension recommends checking moisture as growth changes and keeping saucers free of standing water. A reminder can prompt that check; it does not tell you how wet the root zone is.
Source: University of Minnesota Extension: Spring houseplant care
Build a routine from your own observations
Keep a short record: date checked, whether the mix was still damp, whether you watered, and the plant’s location. For example, “checked Monday, still damp, did not water” is more useful than ticking off a task that was not needed. Compare those notes after a move or a change in conditions before changing your reminders.
If water drains poorly or the pot stays wet, review the setup before adding more water. A yellow or drooping leaf alone is not enough to choose between watering and waiting. The separate yellow-leaf guide explains why symptoms need context.
Which plants does this guide cover?
This guide is about an established Monstera in potting mix. Do not transfer the same moisture check to a cutting in water, a reservoir setup, or semi-hydroponics. Record your growing method with the plant so instructions and reminders refer to the actual setup.
Your checklist
Tick off what you have already checked. Nothing is saved.
Frequently asked questions
Should I water my Monstera every seven days?
There is no fixed interval for every pot. Check the potting mix and use your recorded observations to choose a useful reminder interval.
Does a watering reminder measure soil moisture?
No. A Plantly reminder prompts you to check the plant. It does not measure moisture or automatically water the pot.
Keep the check with your care calendar
In Plantly, record completed watering or give feedback when care is too early or not needed. Keep location changes and observations in the plant journal so the routine has a history.
Explore the related Plantly feature
Sources
- RHS: Swiss cheese plantsrhs.org.uk
- University of Minnesota Extension: Spring houseplant careextension.umn.edu
Checked on 12 October 2026. This guide does not replace advice for your individual plant.
