19 Disadvantages of Monstera Plants You Should Know About

Monstera plants, with their iconic split leaves and lush greenery, have made their way into many homes. They're often the highlight of plant collections. But like any plant, they come with their own set of challenges. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision if you're considering adding one to your indoor garden.

This article will walk you through 19 potential drawbacks of owning a Monstera. While these plants are undeniably beautiful, being aware of their pitfalls can save you some headaches down the road. Let's dive in and see what you need to watch out for.

1. Rapid Growth Can Be Overwhelming

Monsteras aren't shy about taking up space. If they're happy in their environment, they can grow quite rapidly. While this might sound like a win, it can be a bit much if you’re not prepared. Imagine a plant that goes from a manageable tabletop feature to a sprawling floor dweller almost overnight.

Managing this growth means regular pruning, which some might find tedious. Not to mention, their roots can outgrow their pots quickly, requiring frequent repotting. If you have limited space or prefer low-maintenance plants, a fast-growing Monstera might not be the best fit.

2. Needs Support Structures

As Monsteras grow, they need something to climb on, like a moss pole or a trellis. Without support, they tend to sprawl, which might not be the look you’re going for if you want a neat, upright plant.

Installing and maintaining support structures can be an extra task. It requires some planning to ensure the plant is properly trained to the support, which can be challenging if you're new to plant care.

3. Sensitive to Overwatering

Monsteras are quite sensitive to overwatering, which is a common issue for many houseplants. Their roots can easily rot if left in soggy soil, leading to a stressed or dying plant. Finding the right balance can be tricky, especially if you’re new to plant care.

Checking the soil moisture regularly and understanding your plant's needs is crucial. Using a well-draining soil mix and ensuring your pot has drainage holes can help, but if you're someone who tends to be heavy-handed with the watering can, this could be a challenge.

4. Susceptible to Pests

Like many houseplants, Monsteras can fall victim to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. These little critters can wreak havoc if not controlled promptly. Regularly inspecting your plant for signs of pest infestations is necessary to keep it healthy.

Dealing with pests often involves using insecticidal soap or neem oil, which can be time-consuming and a bit of a learning curve if you’ve never had to tackle pests before.

5. Toxic to Pets and Humans

One of the significant downsides of Monstera plants is their toxicity. They contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are harmful if ingested by pets or humans. This means they might not be the best choice if you have curious pets or small children.

The symptoms of ingestion can include irritation, swelling, and discomfort. Keeping your plant out of reach or opting for non-toxic alternatives might be a safer choice for some households.

6. Requires Specific Humidity Levels

Monsteras prefer high humidity levels, which can be difficult to maintain indoors, especially during winter months. Dry air can lead to crispy leaf edges and an overall unhappy plant.

Investing in a humidifier or regularly misting your plant can help, but it adds another step to your plant care routine. If you live in a particularly dry climate, this might require more effort than you're willing to put in.

7. Prone to Root Bound Issues

As Monsteras grow, their roots can quickly fill up their pots, becoming root bound. This can stunt their growth and lead to health problems if not addressed.

Repotting a large plant can be a daunting task, especially if you lack experience. It requires selecting the right pot size and soil, and managing the plant without damaging it. If you’re not ready for this kind of commitment, a Monstera might not be the best choice.

8. Requires Regular Pruning

To keep a Monstera looking its best, regular pruning is necessary. This includes removing dead or damaged leaves and sometimes cutting back healthy growth to manage size.

Pruning can be time-consuming and requires some knowledge to avoid harming the plant. If you’re not comfortable with a pair of pruning shears, this task might feel more like a chore than a joy.

9. Large Leaves Collect Dust

Those beautiful, large leaves that Monsteras are known for? They can be magnets for dust. Keeping them clean not only helps the plant photosynthesize but also keeps your indoor air quality better.

Cleaning large leaves can be a bit of a hassle. It involves gently wiping them down with a damp cloth, which can take time, especially if you have a large plant. If you’re not someone who enjoys regular plant maintenance, this might be a downside to consider.

10. Can Be Costly

Monstera plants, particularly the more unique varieties like Monstera deliciosa var. borsigiana or Monstera adansonii, can be quite pricey. The initial investment can be significant, especially if you're buying a larger plant.

Beyond the upfront cost, you might also need to spend on pots, soil, supports, and pest treatments. If you’re on a budget, this might be something to consider before purchasing a Monstera.

11. Limited Temperature Tolerance

Monsteras thrive in moderate temperatures and can suffer if exposed to extremes. Cold drafts or hot, direct sunlight can damage their leaves and stunt growth.

Ensuring they’re placed in an environment with stable temperatures can be challenging, particularly in homes with varying indoor climates. It might require moving the plant around with the changing seasons, which can be a hassle.

12. Can Outgrow Indoor Spaces

Monsteras can become quite large, which can be an issue if you have limited indoor space. They might start off as a charming addition to a corner but eventually take over more room than you anticipated.

If you're in a small apartment or have limited floor space, a Monstera might not be the best choice. You’ll need to plan ahead and possibly consider creative solutions, like vertical gardening, to accommodate their size.

13. Challenging to Propagate

While propagating Monsteras can be a rewarding experience, it’s not always easy. It involves taking cuttings, ensuring they root properly, and then caring for the new plant.

For those new to plant propagation, this process can be daunting. Success isn’t guaranteed, and it requires patience and attention to detail. If you’re hoping to expand your plant collection through propagation, it might take some trial and error with a Monstera.

14. Needs a Lot of Light

Monsteras need bright, indirect light to thrive. Finding the right spot in your home that offers enough light without direct sun exposure can be tricky.

If you don’t have a well-lit room, you might need to invest in grow lights, which can add to your expenses and require additional setup. Ensuring they get the right light without getting scorched can be a balancing act.

15. Can Be Messy

Monsteras can be messy plants. They often drop leaves as they grow, and their large leaves can create quite a splash if you’re watering them indoors.

Cleaning up after your Monstera might be a regular task, especially if it's shedding leaves or if you’re dealing with water runoff. If you prefer tidy, low-maintenance plants, this might be a point to consider.

16. Needs Regular Fertilizing

To keep a Monstera healthy and thriving, regular fertilization is necessary. This means adding another step to your plant care routine, which might not be ideal if you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant.

Choosing the right fertilizer and applying it correctly can be a learning curve. If you’re not used to feeding your plants, this might feel like an additional chore.

17. Tends to Get Leggy

Without enough light or proper pruning, Monsteras can become leggy, meaning they grow tall and spindly without much foliage. This can lead to an unbalanced appearance and might not fit your aesthetic goals.

Correcting legginess involves adjusting light levels and pruning, which can require some experimentation. If you’re not up for the challenge, a Monstera might not be the plant for you.

18. Susceptible to Leaf Browning

Leaf browning can occur if Monsteras are exposed to too much sunlight, not enough humidity, or inconsistent watering. This can be frustrating, as it affects the plant’s appearance and health.

Solving leaf browning issues means diagnosing the problem and adjusting your care routine accordingly. It can take some time to identify the cause, which might be discouraging if you’re new to plant care.

19. Can Have Aerial Roots

Monstera plants often develop aerial roots, which can be a bit strange for those unfamiliar with them. While these roots help the plant climb and absorb moisture, they can be unsightly or intrusive in a home setting.

Managing aerial roots involves trimming them back or finding ways to incorporate them into your plant’s support system. This can be another task to manage, especially if you’re looking for a plant that requires minimal intervention.

Final Thoughts

Owning a Monstera plant can be a rewarding experience, but it's important to be aware of the challenges they present. From their rapid growth and space requirements to their sensitivity to environmental changes, these plants demand a bit more attention than some other popular houseplants.

At Cafe Planta, we understand the joys and challenges of being a plant parent. Whether you need advice on choosing the right plant or tips for caring for your Monstera, we're here to help. Feel free to email us or reach out on Instagram. We believe that plants bring people together and would love to be part of your plant journey.