Why Is My Monstera Lechleriana Falling Over?

It's a common sight for plant lovers to wake up and find their beloved Monstera Lechleriana leaning or falling over, looking like it had a rough night out. If you're scratching your head wondering why this is happening, you're not alone. This plant, with its dramatic leaves and climbing nature, can sometimes be a bit of a handful, literally and figuratively.

In the paragraphs that follow, we'll take a closer look at some of the reasons your Monstera might be having trouble standing tall. From watering habits to pot size and everything in between, we'll cover practical tips and tricks to help your plant regain its posture and thrive.

Understanding the Natural Growth Habit

First things first, let's talk about how Monstera Lechleriana naturally grows. Like its more famous cousin, the Monstera Deliciosa, this plant is a vining species. In the wild, it's accustomed to climbing trees in tropical rainforests, using its aerial roots to anchor itself as it reaches for sunlight. When grown indoors, it retains this climbing instinct, which is why it can sometimes appear to be reaching or leaning.

So, if your Monstera is falling over, it might just be trying to follow its natural instinct to climb. It doesn't necessarily mean something is wrong, but it does suggest that your plant might benefit from some support. A moss pole or a sturdy trellis can do wonders. These supports mimic the plant's natural environment and encourage it to grow upwards rather than outwards, keeping it more upright.

Think of it like giving your plant a personal trainer—it needs guidance and support to grow strong and healthy. Without this, it might start to sag under the weight of its own leaves. So, if you haven't already, consider investing in some plant supports to help your Monstera Lechleriana reach new heights.

Watering Issues

Watering is a fundamental part of plant care, but it can also be one of the trickiest aspects to get right. If your Monstera Lechleriana is keeling over, improper watering might be the culprit. Both overwatering and underwatering can lead to problems.

Overwatering is a common mistake, especially for new plant parents. When the soil is too wet, the roots can't breathe. This can lead to root rot, which essentially suffocates the plant. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, a musty smell from the soil, and, yes, your plant falling over due to weakened roots.

On the flip side, underwatering can cause your plant to droop and lean. If the soil is too dry, the plant struggles to take up water, and the leaves might start to curl or crisp at the edges. The key is to find a balance. Monstera Lechleriana prefers its soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Stick your finger into the soil about an inch deep; if it feels dry, it’s time to water.

Remember, consistency is crucial. Try to water your plant on a schedule, adjusting for seasonal changes. During winter months, you might find that your Monstera needs less water, whereas in the summer, it might drink more due to higher temperatures and increased light.

Pot Size and Stability

The size of the pot can significantly affect your Monstera's stability. If your plant is in a pot that's too small, the roots might be cramped, leading to poor growth and a lack of support for the plant's height and weight. On the other hand, a pot that's too large can hold excess moisture, which could contribute to overwatering issues.

So, how do you know if your pot is the right size? A good rule of thumb is to choose a pot that's about 2 inches wider in diameter than the root ball of your plant. This gives the roots enough room to grow without overwhelming them with too much soil.

Additionally, consider the material of the pot. Heavier materials like ceramic or terracotta can offer more stability compared to lighter plastic pots. These materials are less likely to tip over as your Monstera grows taller and heavier.

Finally, make sure your pot has adequate drainage holes. This allows excess water to escape, preventing waterlogging and root rot. If your current pot lacks drainage, it might be time to repot your Monstera into something more suitable.

Soil and Nutrient Balance

Soil composition plays a crucial role in your Monstera's health. If the soil is too dense, it can retain too much water, leading to root problems. Conversely, if it's too loose, it might not provide enough support for the plant's roots, causing it to lean or fall over.

A balanced soil mix for Monstera Lechleriana should include components like peat moss, perlite, and pine bark. This mix allows for good drainage while retaining enough moisture for the plant to thrive. You can find pre-made mixes specifically for Monstera or create your own by mixing equal parts of these ingredients.

In addition to soil, consider the nutrient needs of your plant. Monstera Lechleriana benefits from regular feeding, especially during the growing season (spring and summer). A balanced liquid fertilizer applied every 4-6 weeks can help support healthy growth. Be cautious, though—over-fertilizing can lead to salt build-up in the soil, which can damage roots and cause your plant to droop.

As with most things in plant care, balance is key. Monitor your plant and adjust your care routine as needed to ensure it's getting the support it needs from both the soil and nutrient perspective.

Light Conditions

Light is another factor that can influence how your Monstera Lechleriana grows. Inadequate lighting can cause the plant to stretch out, becoming leggy and more prone to falling over. This is because the plant is trying to reach for the light, growing longer stems and fewer leaves.

Monstera Lechleriana thrives in bright, indirect light. Think of the kind of light you'd find under a tree canopy in the rainforest—filtered and not too harsh. If your plant is in a dim corner, it might be time to move it closer to a window where it can receive more light. Be cautious of direct sunlight, though, as it can scorch the leaves.

If natural light is limited, especially in winter months, you might consider using a grow light. These lights can provide the necessary spectrum of light for your Monstera to thrive. Place the grow light about 12-18 inches above the plant and use it for around 12-16 hours a day to mimic natural daylight.

By ensuring your Monstera Lechleriana gets adequate light, you can encourage more balanced growth and reduce the risk of it falling over due to leggy stems.

Temperature and Humidity

Monstera Lechleriana is a tropical plant, so it thrives in warm, humid conditions. When the environment is too dry or too cold, the plant can become stressed, which might cause it to lean or fall over.

For temperature, try to keep your Monstera in a room that's consistently between 65°F and 75°F. Avoid placing it near drafts, air conditioning vents, or heaters, as these can cause temperature fluctuations that stress the plant.

Humidity is equally important. If your home is on the drier side, especially during winter when heating systems are running, consider increasing the humidity around your plant. You can do this by misting the leaves regularly, placing a humidifier nearby, or using a pebble tray with water underneath the pot.

Maintaining stable temperature and humidity levels can help prevent stress-related issues that might cause your Monstera to fall over. Plus, with the right conditions, your plant will grow more robustly, making it less likely to lean.

Pest Problems

Pests can be a sneaky problem that might contribute to your Monstera's instability. Common culprits include spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. These pests suck the sap from the plant, weakening it and potentially leading to drooping or falling over.

Regularly inspecting your plant can help catch pest problems early. Look for signs like tiny webs, sticky residue, or small insects on the leaves and stems. If you spot any pests, treat your plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Both are effective and generally safe for indoor plants.

In addition to treating the plant, it's also wise to check any other nearby plants for signs of pests, as they can spread quickly. Isolating the affected plant during treatment can prevent infestations from spreading.

By keeping a watchful eye and taking action at the first sign of trouble, you can protect your Monstera from pest-induced stress and maintain its upright posture.

Repotting and Root Health

Repotting might be necessary if your Monstera Lechleriana has outgrown its current home. Over time, plants can become root-bound, meaning the roots have filled the pot and have nowhere else to grow. This can restrict growth and lead to instability.

To check if your Monstera needs repotting, gently lift it out of its pot and examine the roots. If they're circling the bottom of the pot or coming out of the drainage holes, it's time for an upgrade. Choose a pot that is one size larger and follow the guidelines for appropriate soil mix and pot choice mentioned earlier.

Repotting also gives you a chance to inspect the roots for any signs of rot or damage, which can also contribute to your plant falling over. Trim away any unhealthy roots with clean scissors to promote better growth.

By giving your Monstera more room to grow and checking on root health, you can help it stay upright and continue to thrive.

Final Thoughts

Bringing your Monstera Lechleriana back to its majestic, upright self involves understanding its needs and providing the right care. From checking the pot size and watering habits to ensuring adequate light and humidity, each aspect plays a role in your plant’s posture.

At Cafe Planta, we’re passionate about helping you nurture your green companions. We offer a range of houseplants, care accessories, and even stylish plant-themed apparel. If you have any questions or just want to chat about your plant journey, feel free to email us or send a DM via our Instagram. We believe that plants have the power to connect us with nature and each other, and we're excited to be part of your plant adventures!