Have you noticed your Monstera looking a bit lackluster lately? Well, it could be crying out for help due to underwatering.
Understanding the telltale signs of an underwatered Monstera is the first step towards reviving your leafy friend.
This article is all about that. I’ll walk you through some of the most common signs your green buddy is thirsty and what you should do if that happens.
Let’s go!
Signs of an Underwatered Monstera
#1 Wilting or Drooping Leaves
Just like us, your Monstera’s leaves can lose their firmness when they’re parched and start to droop.
This happens due to a loss of turgor pressure—think of it as the plant’s version of hydration.
Here’s the scoop:
- Cause: Underwatering leads to a drop in turgor pressure, which makes the leaves sag. It’s a plant’s cry for help, really.
- Symptom: Leaves looking less perky than a morning without coffee.
Give your plant a good watering, and you’ll see it perk up—no caffeine needed.
Here’s a quick checklist for when you suspect your leafy friend is running on empty:
- Soil check: Stick your finger in. If it’s dryer than a desert, it’s time to water.
- Leaf check: If they’re drooping, your Monstera is telling you something.
#2 Dry or Brown Spots on Leaves
This unwelcome change usually waves a flag that your Monstera might be longing for a drink.
When the soil becomes dry, your Monstera can’t quench its thirst. As a result, leaves start to develop dry or brown edges and spots.
To prevent your plant’s personal drought, try the simple steps:
- Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. You’re aiming for a balance.
- Water when the top two inches of soil are dry.
- Consider pruning the damaged leaves with a clean snip.
- Empty drainage trays after watering to ensure your plant isn’t sitting in a puddle.
#3 Curling Leaves
This is a classic SOS signal that your Monstera is underwatered. These green beauties are tropical natives; they love moisture!
Why Do Leaves Curl?
- Conserving Moisture: Think of curling leaves as your plant’s smart way of self-preservation. It’s trying to reduce the surface area to minimize water loss.
- Signs: Curling begins at the tips and edges, which may also turn crispy, a clear sign it’s time to quench that thirst!
How to Prevent Monstera Leaves Curling:
- Regular Watering: Keep the soil consistently damp but not soggy.
- Humidity Check: Ideally, aim for 40-60% humidity around your Monstera.
- Occasional Misting: Treat your Monstera to a gentle misting
#4 Stunted Growth
Without enough water, your Monstera’s growth can slow down or stop as the plant conserves resources for survival.
But fret not! You can turn things around. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Revive with regular hydration: Get back on track with a consistent watering schedule. Your plant’s thirsty roots will thank you!
- Feed it right: Occasional fertilizer gives your Monstera a nutrient boost to encourage growth.
Related Article: Signs of Overwatered Monstera
Corrective Measures for Underwatered Monsteras
Reviving your underwatered Monstera doesn’t have to be a tall order! With a handful of tweaks and techniques, you can bring back the lushness to your leafy friend.
Adjusting the Watering Schedule
Your Monstera craves consistency, so how about we give it just that?
Peek at the soil’s top inch; if it feels like a dry desert, it’s time to quench its thirst. Here’s your game plan:
- Twice a week check: Poke your finger in the soil.
- Frequency: Watering usually varies from once a week to once every two weeks, depending on the environmental conditions.
- Listen to the plant: Yellowing leaves scream for more water, while brown tips whisper for less.
Rehydrating Dry Soil
Is your Monstera’s soil as dry as a bone? The solution is simple: Bottom watering.
- Place your Monstera pot in a container filled with water.
- Wait for about 30 minutes. Allow the soil to sip slowly through the drainage holes.
- Lift and let any excess water drain.
Gradual rehydration brings your soil back to being a sponge ready for regular top watering again.
When to Repot
Repotting might raise your brows, but sometimes, it’s the fresh start your Monstera desperately needs. When:
- Roots growing out of the pot
- Water runs through quicker than it should, hinting at compacted soil
Pick a pot that’s a size larger with fresh potting mix and comfortably settle your Monstera in its new home.
Preventing Underwatering and Maintaining Balance
Listen to the Leaves: They’re gonna tell you a lot! If they start to droop or get crispy, your Monstera might be parched.
Monitor and Measure:
- Get yourself a moisture meter. It’s like a thirst gauge for your plant.
- Aim to keep the humidity level around your Monstera friend-like, think of the comfortable humidity in a tropical rainforest, because that’s its home turf!
Adapt to the Seasons: Water more during the growing season (spring and summer) and less during the winter months.
Shield from Harsh Sun: Place your plant pal in indirect light. Just like you might get a sunburn, harsh sunlight can stress your Monstera, increasing water needs or causing damage.
Slow It Down: Steady watering wins the race. If water zips through the soil like a race car, consider repotting with a moisture-retentive mix.
