Monstera Not Growing: 10 Reasons Your Monstera Stopped Growing

If your Monstera is not growing, there is usually a specific reason behind it. Monsteras are naturally fast-growing plants, so slow or stopped growth often indicates a problem with care conditions.

This guide explains why Monstera stops growing and how to restart healthy growth.

Is Slow Growth Normal?

Sometimes slow growth is completely normal.

Monsteras naturally grow slower during:

• Winter months
• Low light seasons
• After repotting
• After propagation

If your Monstera is healthy but growing slowly in winter, this is normal.

Low Light – The Most Common Cause

Low light is the most common reason Monsteras stop growing.

Signs of low light:

• No new leaves
• Small leaves
• Long thin stems
• Leaning plant

How to Fix

• Move plant closer to a window
• Provide bright indirect light

Related guide:

• Monstera Light Requirements

Pot Too Small

Roots need space to grow.

Signs:

• Roots circling the pot
• Soil dries quickly
• Slow growth

How to Fix

Repot into a slightly larger pot.

Related guide:

• Monstera Repotting Guide

Poor Soil

Heavy or compact soil suffocates roots.

Symptoms:

• Wet soil for many days
• Slow growth
• Weak stems

How to Fix

Use airy soil mix.

Related guide:

• Monstera Soil Guide

Incorrect Watering

Both overwatering and underwatering slow growth.

Signs of watering problems:

• Yellow leaves
• Drooping leaves
• Slow development

How to Fix

Water only when soil is partly dry.

Related guide:

• Monstera Watering Guide

Lack of Nutrients

Monsteras need nutrients to grow.

Symptoms:

• Pale leaves
• Weak growth
• Small leaves

How to Fix

Fertilize monthly during growing season.

Cold Temperatures

Monsteras prefer warm environments.

Temperatures below 15°C slow growth significantly.

Ideal range:

18–30°C

Root Problems

Root damage stops growth.

Possible causes:

• Root rot
• Root damage
• Compacted roots

How to Fix

Inspect roots and repot if necessary.

Related guide:

• Monstera Root Rot

No Support Pole

Monsteras grow faster when climbing.

Unsupported Monsteras grow slower.

How to Fix

Add:

• Moss pole
• Coco pole
• Wooden stake

Climbing encourages larger leaves.

After Repotting or Propagation

Growth may pause temporarily.

Monsteras need time to adjust.

Growth usually resumes within:

2–4 weeks.

Winter Dormancy

Monsteras slow down naturally in winter.

Typical winter behavior:

• No new leaves
• Slow growth
• Less water use

Growth resumes in spring.

How to Make Monstera Grow Again

To restart growth:

• Provide bright indirect light
• Use airy soil
• Water properly
• Repot if needed
• Fertilize monthly
• Keep warm temperatures

Healthy Monsteras resume growth quickly.

Signs Growth is Restarting

Positive signs:

• New leaf buds
• Upright stems
• Larger leaves
• Brighter color

New leaves usually appear within a few weeks.

FAQ

Why is my Monstera alive but not growing?

Usually caused by low light or winter dormancy.

How long can Monstera stop growing?

Several months during winter is normal.

Does Monstera grow faster in summer?

Yes. Growth is fastest in warm bright conditions.

Can Monstera stop growing permanently?

No. Healthy Monsteras resume growth with proper care