June 11, 2025, 8:53 am | Read time: 3 minutes
The Monstera has gradually become a popular houseplant over time. With proper care, these plants can grow quite large, with leaves reaching up to 50 centimeters. Occasionally, a light pruning is advisable. myHOMEBOOK gardening expert Franka Kruse-Gering explains what to consider when trimming.
If you don’t have a green thumb but still want some greenery in your home, consider getting a Monstera. Whether with or without splits in the leaves, it usually looks elegant. To keep it in shape, you can occasionally trim the Monstera. There are a few points to keep in mind when doing so.
Follow myHOMEBOOK on WhatsApp now
Do You Need to Trim a Monstera?
Generally, it’s not necessary to trim a Monstera. It’s a low-maintenance tropical plant that does well without pruning. However, there can be benefits to occasionally trimming it. If the plant isn’t growing in the desired shape, I would recommend a shaping cut. A rejuvenation cut can also be worthwhile. I would also cut off diseased leaves. The remaining energy can then be used by the plant to produce new leaves. You can also trim the Monstera for propagation.
What to Consider When Trimming
If you decide to trim your Monstera, there are a few things to consider to prevent significant damage to the plant.
The timing of trimming a Monstera is particularly important. It should be done during the growth phase, in spring or summer, as the plant can recover better during this time. The cut should be made above a leaf node or an aerial root. When removing diseased leaves, it’s important to cut them as close to the ground as possible. Since trimming creates a wound on the Monstera, I would always ensure that the tools are clean and germ-free.
Important: Never cut more than one-third of the plant. With each leaf we remove, the plant loses an energy source, as less photosynthesis can occur. If you cut too much at once, the Monstera may become too weakened by the trimming and may not grow properly.
Which Tomato Varieties Don’t Need Thinning
Should You Use Ash to Treat Tree Wounds?
Ground Ivy – the Green Wonder Herb in Forests and Gardens
What the Monstera Needs to Recover
By trimming, we’ve inflicted a wound on the plant. However, I would advise against using wound sealants, as they can potentially do more harm than good. The wound will dry out on its own and should be kept dry to prevent rotting.
After trimming, you can reduce watering a bit. The plant now has less leaf mass and doesn’t need as much water as before. For optimal recovery, the Monstera should be placed in a warm location but not in direct sunlight. In the first few weeks after trimming, you should not fertilize the Monstera, as it should focus entirely on healing the wound.