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Monstera care in winter: 8 tips for the cold months

Winter is a challenging period for your Monstera. Less light, dry heating air, and lower temperatures — it's the exact opposite of the tropical conditions this Swiss cheese plant loves. With these 8 winter care tips, you'll ensure your Monstera gets through the cold months successfully. Winter vs. Summer Monstera Care Aspect Summer Winter Water 1x per week 1x per 10-14 days Nutrients 1x per month No nutrients Light Indirect, out of direct sun Closer to the window Misting Occasionally Recommended daily Temperature 20-25°C Minimum 15°C, away from drafts Growth Active Rest period, minimal growth Tip 1: Water less In winter, your Monstera hardly grows and evaporates less water. Therefore, give half the amount of water as in summer. Wait until the top 5 cm of potting soil is completely dry. Overwatering in winter is the number one cause of root rot. Tip 2: Increase humidity Heated air is bone dry — sometimes only 30-40% humidity, while your Monstera prefers 60-80%. Mist the leaves daily, group plants together (they create a microclimate), or place a humidifier in the room. Tip 3: Move closer to the window The winter sun in the Netherlands is weak enough not to burn your Monstera. Feel free to place it closer to the window than in summer. More light means healthier leaves, even during the darker months. Tip 4: Do not fertilize Stop fertilizing from October through February. Your Monstera is in a dormant phase and cannot absorb nutrients. Fertilizing in winter can even lead to a buildup of salts in the potting soil, which damages the roots. Tip 5: Keep away from drafts Cold drafts are detrimental to tropical plants. Do not place your Monstera next to an open window, exterior door, or ventilation grille. The cold from a single-pane window can also be harmful — keep at least 10 cm distance. Tip 6: Do not repot in winter Wait until spring to repot. During the winter months, your Monstera does not have enough energy to form new roots in fresh potting soil. Repotting in winter increases the risk of root rot. Tip 7: Keep leaves clean Dust accumulates in winter (dry air, closed windows). Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth once every two weeks. Clean leaves absorb more light — and your plant desperately needs that in winter. Tip 8: Accept less growth A Monstera that doesn't grow in winter is not a sick Monstera — it's a plant in a dormant phase. Do not try to force growth with extra nutrients or water. As the days get longer in March, you'll see new leaves emerge again. 🌿 View our Monstera collection At XXLplant, you'll find the most beautiful and largest Monsteras, directly from the grower. View Monsteras → Frequently asked questions Can my Monstera die from the cold? At temperatures below 10°C, Monstera leaves can be damaged. Below 5°C, the plant can be severely damaged or die. Always keep it above 15°C. Should I provide supplementary lighting for my Monstera in winter? It's not strictly necessary, but a grow light can help if your Monstera is in a very dark spot. Turn the lamp on for 10-12 hours a day to compensate for the lack of daylight.