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 prune the Monstera. There are a few points to keep in mind when doing so.
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Do you need to prune a Monstera?
Generally, it’s not necessary to prune a Monstera. It’s a low-maintenance tropical plant that does well without pruning. However, there can be benefits to trimming it occasionally. 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 prune the Monstera for propagation.
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What to consider when pruning
If you decide to prune your Monstera, there are a few things to consider to ensure the plant doesn’t suffer too much damage.
The timing of pruning 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 pruning 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 pruning and may not grow properly.
What the Monstera needs to recover
Pruning has created a wound on the plant. However, I would advise against using wound sealants, as they can do more harm than good. The wound will dry out on its own and should be kept dry to prevent rot.
After pruning, 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 pruning, you should not fertilize the Monstera, as it should focus entirely on healing the wound.