Monstera Care Schedule
Monstera deliciosa
7 recurring tasks keep a monstera in good shape, across 6 categories. Budget roughly $10–120 a year at typical U.S. prices; 7 of them you can do yourself.
Fertilizing
| Task | How often | Est. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize DIY | Monthly | $0–15 | Feed monthly spring through summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength to fuel large fenestrated leaves. |
Grooming
| Task | How often | Est. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rotate for Even Light DIY | Every 2 weeks | Free / DIY | Rotate the pot a quarter turn every two weeks so it grows symmetrically toward the light instead of leaning. |
| Dust Leaves DIY | Monthly | Free / DIY | Wipe the broad leaves with a damp cloth monthly so dust does not block light and slow photosynthesis. |
Pest
| Task | How often | Est. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Inspection DIY | Every 2 weeks | $0–10 | Check leaf undersides and stems for spider mites and thrips, which target Monstera in dry indoor air. |
Pruning
| Task | How often | Est. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prune DIY | Every 6 mo | Free / DIY | Trim leggy vines and yellowing leaves to shape growth and propagate cuttings from nodes with aerial roots. |
Repotting
| Task | How often | Est. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Repot DIY | Every 2 yr | $10–30 | Repot every two years into a pot one size up with a moss pole, since it is a fast-growing climber that gets root-bound. |
Watering
| Task | How often | Est. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water DIY | Weekly | Free / DIY | Water when the top 2 inches of soil dry out, roughly weekly in growth and every 10-14 days in winter; soggy soil causes root rot. |
Common questions
Is Monstera toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes, the Monstera (Monstera deliciosa) is toxic to cats and dogs if chewed or swallowed, typically causing mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting. Keep it out of a pet's reach, and contact your veterinarian or a pet poison line if your pet ingests it.
How often does a monstera need maintenance?
A monstera has 7 recurring tasks across 6 categories, ranging from frequent, quick jobs to once-a-year items. The schedule below lists each one with how often it's due and what it typically costs.
How much does monstera upkeep cost per year?
Budget roughly $10–$120 a year at typical U.S. prices. 7 of the 7 tasks are DIY-friendly, which pulls the actual number toward the low end.
What monstera maintenance can I do myself?
7 of the 7 tasks here are marked DIY. Those are routine, low-cost jobs that don't need a pro. Each row below notes which is which.
Intervals and costs are typical-case estimates for U.S. owners; your climate, usage, and local prices will shift them. Information here is general reference only and may be estimated or AI-assisted. It is not professional advice. Verify with a qualified professional before acting, and use it at your own risk. See our Terms & Disclaimer.