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 — 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 real number toward the low end.
What monstera maintenance can I do myself?
7 of the 7 tasks here are marked DIY — 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 and may be estimated or AI-assisted — not professional, medical, or veterinary advice. Verify against your owner's manual, a professional, or your vet before acting. See our Terms & Disclaimer.