How to Cut a Monstera Plant: Step-by-Step Guide

By James Wilson · January 24, 2026

To cut a Monstera plant, use clean, sharp pruning shears to make a 45-degree angled cut just above a node or aerial root. This encourages healthy regrowth and allows you to propagate new plants from the cutting.

Why You Should Cut Your Monstera Plant

Cutting your Monstera (commonly known as the Swiss cheese plant) is essential for maintaining its health, shape, and size. Regular pruning stimulates new growth, prevents legginess, and helps manage indoor space. It also provides an opportunity to propagate more plants.

Common Reasons to Prune a Monstera

Control plant size and shape
Remove yellowing or damaged leaves
Promote bushier growth
Propagate new plants
Improve air circulation and light penetration

Best Time to Cut a Monstera Plant

The ideal time to cut a Monstera is during its active growing season—spring through early summer. Cutting during this period ensures faster recovery and robust regrowth.

Seasonal Growth Patterns of Monstera deliciosa

Season	Growth Rate (cm/week)	Root Development Speed	Recommended Pruning?
Spring	1.8	Fast	Yes
Summer	1.5	Moderate to Fast	Yes
Fall	0.6	Slow	No
Winter	0.2	Very Slow	No

Table data source:1, 2

Data shows that Monsteras grow most rapidly in spring and summer, making these seasons optimal for pruning. Root development is significantly slower in fall and winter, so propagation attempts during these times are less likely to succeed.

Tools Needed for Cutting a Monstera

Using the right tools ensures clean cuts and reduces the risk of disease transmission.

Essential Tools for Pruning

Sharp bypass pruning shears
Disinfectant (70% isopropyl alcohol)
Clean cloth or paper towel
Gloves (optional, sap may irritate skin)
Propagation container with water or soil

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cut a Monstera Plant

Follow these steps to properly cut and propagate your Monstera.

Step 1: Sanitize Your Tools

Wipe blades with rubbing alcohol to prevent spreading pathogens.

Step 2: Identify Nodes and Aerial Roots

Look for small bumps along the stem—these are nodes, where new growth emerges. Aerial roots appear as brownish, rope-like extensions. Both indicate viable cutting points.

Step 3: Make the Cut

Using sharp shears, cut at a 45-degree angle about 0.5 inches above a node or aerial root. This angle maximizes surface area for water absorption during propagation.

Step 4: Prepare for Propagation

Place the cutting in water or moist potting mix, ensuring at least one node is submerged or buried. New roots typically emerge within 2–4 weeks.

Step 5: Care for the Parent Plant

After cutting, keep the parent plant in bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Tips for Successful Monstera Propagation

Use a clear jar to monitor root development in water propagation
Add liquid houseplant fertilizer every 4–6 weeks after roots form
Maintain humidity above 60% to speed up growth
Rotate the plant weekly for even light exposure
Wait until roots are 2–3 inches long before transplanting to soil

Frequently Asked Questions About Cutting a Monstera Plant

Can I cut a Monstera leaf in half?

No, do not cut a Monstera leaf in half. Mature leaves perform photosynthesis and support plant health. Damaging them reduces energy production. If a leaf is partially damaged, remove the entire leaf instead.

How many nodes should a Monstera cutting have?

Aim for at least one node, but two nodes increase success rates. Each node can produce new leaves and roots, improving propagation viability.

Can I propagate Monstera in water?

Yes, water propagation is highly effective. Place the cutting in clean water with the node submerged. Change the water weekly and transfer to soil once roots reach 2–3 inches.

What happens if I cut my Monstera too far down the stem?

If you leave at least one node on the remaining stem, the plant will usually recover and sprout new growth. However, avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time to minimize stress.

Do I need rooting hormone for Monstera cuttings?

Not required, but it can accelerate root development. Monstera naturally produces auxins that promote rooting, but using a gel or powder hormone may reduce propagation time by 1–2 weeks.