Why Is My Monstera Falling Over? (Causes, Solutions & Tips)

Monstera plants can fall over due to a lack of support. In the wild, They climb trees for support but rely on a stake or trellis to keep them upright in pots. Another common cause is underwatering, leading to weak stems and leaves. Inappropriate light, temperature stress, and inadequate fertilizing can also contribute to your Monstera falling over.

Monstera plants are a popular choice for indoor gardeners due to their unique and attractive foliage. 

However, one common issue many Monstera owners face is their plant falling over. This can be frustrating and concerning, especially if you’re unsure how to fix the cause. 

Here we’ll explore why Monstera plants fall over and provide tips on preventing and treating this issue.

If you’re experiencing this issue with your Monstera plant, don’t worry. You can try several solutions to help your plant regain its strength and upright posture. 

By understanding the causes of Monstera plants falling over and implementing the proper care techniques, you can ensure that your plant thrives and continues to be a beautiful addition to your home or office.

Signs of a Falling Monstera

Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss cheese plant, is a popular indoor plant due to its unique foliage and easy care. However, like any plant, it can experience issues that cause it to fall over. 

Here are some signs to look out for:

• Leaning or tilting to one side
• Browning along the leaf margins
• Leaves turning yellow
• Slow growth
• Wilting or drooping leaves

If you notice any of these signs, you must take action to prevent your Monstera from falling over completely.

One common cause of a falling Monstera is underwatering. 

If the soil is dry and the leaves are wilting, it’s time to water your plant well. 

On the other hand, overwatering your plant can cause issues, such as root rot, leading to a mushy stem and foul odor.

Another cause of a falling monstera is potting issues. 

Without enough soil to support the root ball, the plant could become top-heavy and tip to one side. 

It’s essential to choose a pot that’s the right size for your plant and to repot it as needed.

Bugs such as mealybugs and spider mites can also cause a monstera to fall over. 

These pests feed on the plant’s tissues, leaving an unsightly “drip line” along the leaf veins and causing the leaf to wither and fall over. 

If you suspect pests cause your Monstera issues, taking action is essential to get rid of them.

By being aware of the signs of a falling monstera and taking action to address any issues, you can help your plant stay healthy and upright.

Causes of Monstera Toppling Over

Monstera plants are known for their beautiful and unique foliage, but they can be prone to falling over. 

Here are some common causes of Monstera toppling over:

• Underwatering: If you forget to water your Monstera, it can cause the leaves to wilt and the plant to become weak and unstable. Make sure to water your Monstera regularly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Overwatering: Overwatering can also cause your Monstera to fall over. When the soil is too wet, the roots can become waterlogged and start to rot, which can weaken the plant and cause it to fall over. Make sure to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Potting Issues: If your Monstera is in a pot that is too small or not sturdy enough, it can cause the plant to become top-heavy and fall over. Make sure to repot your Monstera into a pot that is the right size and has good drainage.
• Lack of Support: Monstera plants are climbers in nature and need support to grow upright. If your Monstera is not supported, it can become weak and start to fall over. Consider using a moss pole or trellis to provide support for your Monstera.

By understanding the common causes of Monstera toppling over, you can take steps to prevent it from happening to your plant. 

Ensure to water your Monstera properly, provide it with a sturdy pot and support, and watch for any signs of weakness or instability.

How to Prevent Monstera from Falling Over

If you have a Monstera plant, you may have noticed that it tends to lean to one side or even fall over as it grows larger. This can be due to various reasons, including lack of support, inadequate soil, or improper watering. 

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent your Monstera from falling over and keep it growing upright and healthy.

Provide Adequate Support

Providing adequate support is one of the most effective ways to prevent your Monstera from falling over. This can be done using a moss pole, bamboo stake, or trellis. 

These supports will give your Monstera something to climb and attach its aerial roots to, helping it grow upward and stay upright.

Use the Right Soil

The soil you use can also play a role in preventing your Monstera from falling over. If the soil is too loose or lacks nutrients, the plant may not have enough support to stay upright. 

Use a well-draining soil mix that contains perlite or vermiculite to help the soil retain moisture and provide adequate support for the roots.

Water Properly

Proper watering is also essential for keeping your Monstera healthy and upright. 

Overwatering can cause the soil to become waterlogged and lead to root rot, which can weaken the plant and cause it to fall over. 

Underwatering your Monstera can also be a problem, as it can cause the soil to dry out and lead to wilting and drooping. 

Water your Monstera thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and allow excess water to drain out of the bottom of the pot.

Prune Regularly

Regular pruning can also help prevent your Monstera from falling over. 

Trim back any dead or damaged leaves, as well as any long, trailing stems that are weighing the plant down. This will help redirect the plant’s energy toward new growth and keep it growing upright.

What to Do If Your Monstera Has Fallen Over

If your Monstera has already fallen over, don’t worry, it’s not too late to save it. 

Here are some steps you can take to help your plant recover:

• Assess the damage: Check if the stem or leaves are damaged. If the stem is broken, you may need to prune it. If the leaves are damaged, you can trim them off.
• Repot the plant: If the plant has fallen out of its pot, gently repot it, adding a support stake or trellis to keep it upright.
• Support the stem: If the stem is still intact, but the plant is leaning, you can use a stake or trellis to support it. Be sure to gently tie the stem to the support to avoid damaging it.
• Water the plant: After repotting or supporting it, give it a good watering to help it recover.
• Monitor the plant: Keep an eye on your Monstera for the next few weeks to make sure it’s recovering. If the leaves start to wilt or turn yellow, it may be a sign of further damage.

Remember, prevention is critical when it comes to keeping your Monstera upright. By providing proper support and care, you can help prevent your plant from falling over in the first place.

Final Thoughts

Growing Monstera can be challenging, but if you follow all of the tips outlined here, you should have no problem keeping your Monstera upright and thriving.

Make sure to provide enough water, as well as regular pruning and repotting when necessary.

If your Monstera does start to lean or fall over, take a few moments to assess what might be causing the issue and take the necessary steps to remedy it.

With a bit of patience and care, you can help ensure your Monstera is healthy and happy for years to come.