Monstera plants can outgrow their pots surprisingly quickly. If yours has roots poking through the drainage holes, dries out within days, or has simply become too top-heavy, it’s probably time for a new home.
The good news? Monsteras are far tougher than they look. With the right technique, you can repot one without damaging its roots or setting it back for weeks.
Here’s exactly how to do it.
When should you repot a Monstera?
Monsteras usually need repotting every 18–24 months, although younger plants may need it annually while they’re growing quickly.
Signs it’s time include:
- Roots growing from the drainage holes
- Roots circling around the top of the soil
- Water running straight through the pot
- Soil drying out very quickly
- The plant becoming unstable or top-heavy
- Little or no new growth despite good care
If you’re unsure, read our guide to Signs Your Houseplant Needs Repotting.
The best time to repot
Spring and early summer are ideal.
During the growing season your Monstera can quickly establish new roots and recover from the move.
Winter repotting isn’t impossible, but unless the plant desperately needs rescuing, it’s usually best to wait.
Read:
Choose the right pot
One of the biggest mistakes people make is choosing a pot that’s far too large.
Go just 2–5cm (1–2 inches) wider than the current pot.
A huge pot holds too much wet compost, increasing the risk of root rot.
Always choose a pot with drainage holes.
Helpful products:
Use a chunky, well-draining mix
Monsteras hate sitting in soggy compost.
A good mix contains:
- Quality houseplant compost
- Perlite
- Orchid bark
- Coco coir (optional)
This creates plenty of air around the roots while still holding enough moisture.
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Water your Monstera first
Water the plant one day before repotting.
Slightly moist soil slides out much more easily than bone-dry compost and helps protect the roots.
Avoid repotting when the soil is soaking wet.
Remove the plant carefully
Turn the pot on its side.
Support the stems close to the base and gently slide the root ball free.
If it’s stuck:
- squeeze plastic pots
- tap the sides
- run a knife around the inside edge
Never yank the stems.
Monstera leaves may look strong, but the stems can snap surprisingly easily.
Should you loosen the roots?
If the roots are only lightly circling, leave most of them alone.
If the plant is badly root-bound, gently tease a few outer roots loose with your fingers.
Avoid pulling apart the entire root ball unless absolutely necessary.
The less root damage, the faster your Monstera will recover.
Place it in the new pot
Add a layer of fresh compost to the bottom.
Sit the Monstera so the base of the stems stays at exactly the same height as before.
Don’t bury the stems deeper.
Fill around the sides with fresh soil and gently firm everything into place.
Don’t compact the compost too tightly—the roots still need air.
Water thoroughly
Give the plant a deep watering until water drains from the bottom.
Allow all excess water to drain away.
Never leave the pot sitting in water.
Wondering if that’s enough?
Read:
Support large Monsteras
Tall Monsteras often appreciate extra support after repotting.
A moss pole or sturdy coir pole encourages larger leaves and healthier growth.
What if your Monstera droops afterwards?
A little drooping is completely normal.
Repotting disturbs the roots, and the plant needs time to settle.
Keep it:
- in bright, indirect light
- away from direct sun
- away from radiators
- evenly moist (not soggy)
Most Monsteras recover within one to three weeks.
If your plant looks much worse after several weeks, read:
Common mistakes
❌ Choosing a pot that’s far too big
❌ Using heavy compost with no drainage
❌ Breaking up all the roots
❌ Burying the stem too deeply
❌ Watering every day after repotting
❌ Moving the plant into harsh direct sunlight immediately afterwards
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I repot a Monstera in winter?
Only if it urgently needs it. Otherwise, wait until spring.
Should I remove all the old soil?
No. Remove only loose soil. Keeping most of the root ball intact reduces transplant shock.
Can I split a Monstera while repotting?
Yes, if it has multiple stems with separate root systems. Repotting is the ideal time to divide large plants.
Should I fertilise after repotting?
Wait around four weeks before feeding. Fresh compost already contains nutrients.
Final Thoughts
Monsteras are surprisingly forgiving plants. If you choose the right-sized pot, use a chunky free-draining soil mix, and avoid overhandling the roots, your plant should settle into its new home quickly and reward you with fresh growth before long.
Repotting might seem intimidating the first time, but once you’ve done it, you’ll realise it’s one of the easiest ways to keep your Monstera healthy for years.