Monsteras, or Swiss cheese vines as they are known for their famous holey leaves, have become a popular choice for houseplants in the last couple of years.
But with such newfound popularity comes one big question – what’s the best pot to choose for these striking and exotic-looking plants?
Well, monstera plants need pots with good drainage that allow the potting soil to drain. So, the best pot for monstera plant should prevent root rot and maintain general health.
Besides, the material you pick for your monstera plant pot depends on several factors. For example:
- The amount of moisture your monstera will get, whether excess water or not.
- The climate type you’ll subject your monstera plant to.
Not only that, but your monstera pot should also be deep enough. Otherwise, the pot will only support a moss or stake pole for your indoor plants to climb.
What Kind of Pot to Use for Monstera?
1. Provides one to two inches of space between the roots and pot edges
A pot you pick for your Monstera has to be large enough for its roots to grow. But small enough to let the moist soil dry between watering. As a rule, your monstera plants need pots large enough.
That’s because there needs to be a 2-inch space between their roots and the pot’s edges. Also, the plastic or glazed ceramic pot should support your Monstera plant’s weight.
Otherwise, the plastic pot will topple below the Monstera’s weight.
2. Deep enough for a support pole
The depth of the concrete pots or any other pots is essential, too. This is because you’ll likely add a totem or Monstera moss pole. Thus, consider the pot’s depth.
The monstera pot should have a suitable depth to do the following:
- To insert the moss pole
- To support its weight
Elsewhere, shallow unglazed clay pots may become top-heavy or unstable. Unfortunately, that happens when adding the moss pole.
Generally, you need to insert your moss pole to a 7-inch depth. It would help if you did so to provide the stability your giant Monstera needs.
3. Made from material that suits your watering habits
A material makeup of your larger pot is crucial in how the potting mix dries. A terracotta cache pot or similar porous containers dry out faster. They do so when whisking moisture away from the soil.
Further, the ceramic or plastic pot-bound soil dries more slowly. That’s because the moisture has no place to go. So, pick porous pots like terracotta since they prevent soggy soil.
But a terracotta pot material is optional if you’ve got a well-draining potting mix, as monstera soil mix prevents soggy soil.
4. Looks aesthetically pleasing
It would help if you cared about the look of the best pot for Monstera. That’s even your Monstera doesn’t care.
Most plant lovers prefer matching their right pot to the office or home decor. So, they prefer pots with colors or materials that create pleasing displays. Unfortunately, some large pots for decoration lack a single drainage hole.
Though that isn’t okay, you can compensate for the lack of drainage in other ways.
5. Has drainage holes
Monstera plants need well-draining soil to thrive. And while you need such a good potting mix, it never ends there.
So, to drain well, your potting soil should be within ceramic pots with base holes. That gives the excess water a place to go as it drains via the soil.
Pot Types to Use on Monstera
1. Terracotta pots and Monstera
In matters of Monstera, terracotta is the best pot. They’re fine-kilned and unglazed. They’re made from a specific soil type. Also, they’ve got a rusty red appearance.
Use these terracotta pots on outdoor or indoor Monstera plants.
Pros
Cons
2. Glazed ceramic monsterra pot
Glazed ceramic pots are pots with glazed lines. That makes them non-porous. So, they’ll retain moisture similar to plastic pots.
Pros
Cons
3. Plastic pots for Monstera
Among the best pot for Monstera, a plastic pot fits on the top. Of course, this is because this this nursery pot has makeup with synthetic polymers. Fortunately, these polymers aren’t harmful to your Monstera plants.
Because of that, these plastic pots will benefit your plants instead of killing them. Further, you’ll find lovely and high-end plastic pots since they’re cheap. Some are transparent, but most are translucent.
Finally, always pick glazed or unglazed pots meant for houseplants. That’s because some pots leach chemicals that’ll harm your Monstera.
Pros
Cons
4. Metal planters
Metal pot material is mainly made of steel or aluminum and several other galvanized finishes. The same pot is a perfect pick for growing your Monsteras.
Further, they come in several designs, colors, shapes, and sizes. But pick a plant pot size that best suits your Monsteras. So rather than choosing a small pot, select a bigger pot instead.
Also, they’re a perfect pick for plant lovers looking for a cache pot. This cache pot adds beautiful aesthetics to any home/office decor.
Pros
Cons
5. Concrete planters
Concrete is another best pot for Monstera. It’s among the most attractive pot choices. Also, they’re available in several lovely shapes and colors. In short, they’re the best buy for your Monstera plants.
Pros
Cons
6. Fiberglass
Fiberglass is another best pot for Monstera. That’s so since it’s a lightweight and synthetic pot and planter. They’re similar to polymer/plastic resin. But they’ve got glass fiber reinforcement.
Pros
Cons
How to Choose the Best Planter for Monstera
Choosing the right size and shape of planter can be tricky. But it’s important if you want your Monstera to grow healthy and thrive.
Here are some factors to bear in mind when picking a planter so that you can be sure your Monstera is in its happiest home.
Plant size
Small Monstera plants can grow in a single pot for many years. The plants can stay within the pots they came in and still flourish. Your Monstera plants don’t need larger pots yet.
Large Monstera plants need bigger pots. Otherwise, the Monsteras will need more room for their roots. Also, small pots won’t provide enough support to your large Monsteras.
The large pot will still work when your Monsteras reach for the sky on moss-covered poles. That’s because they’ll support the Monstera’s weight without toppling.
Growing habit
Monstera plants are climbing and vining tropical plants. So, most plant parents grow Monsteras as climbers. They provide totems or poles that make them grow upward. Fortunately, there are other ways of growing your Monstera plants.
You can grow most Monstera plants as trailing and vining plants, too. Moreover, you can grow these tropical plants in the following:
- Baskets
- Hanging plant pots
- Or displayed on raised plant stands.
Further, plants that cascade or vine over the pot’s sides can thrive in shorter pots. That’s so since supporting a large climber’s weight isn’t necessary.
What Size Pots do Monstera Like?
Monsteras like pots that let their roots have enough room for growth. Otherwise, the roots would suffer in pots that are too tiny. However, Monsteras in extra-large pots can suffer, too.
That’s because the excess potting soil won’t dry or drain out faster enough. But does potting soil go bad? Read to find out.
Monstera pot size guide
Here are several broad factors you can consider when picking the ideal monstera plant pot size:
- How big is the root ball? In matters of the best pot for Monstera, a one or two-inch space should exist between the pot’s edges and the roots. That means that you’ll need to check Monstera’s roots. And that’s before picking the best pot for Monstera. That helps you know the pot size you’ll need.
- Suppose your Monstera plants need supporting poles. Climbing Monsteras need moss poles or other totems to hold themselves up. Further, you’ll need more bottomless pots that let the poles stand within them. But that’s if your Monsteras vine or climb.
- Suppose your Monsteras are growing as trailing or vining plants. Monsteras are always beautiful when they trail out of their pots. Thus, letting their vines spill toward the ground. That inevitably means your pots can be shallower.
- If the pot can hold your Monstera plants directly, it can be a cache pot. Often, plant lovers prefer to grow their Monsteras in plain plastic pots. And then put the pots in more decorative ones. The outer ones become the cache pots. If that’s the case, the cache pots should be significant to hold the inner pots.
Signs your Monstera pot is too small
- Soil dries faster. When your pot is too small, its roots may have challenges getting enough moisture. And because there’s less soil, the mix tends to dry faster. Thus, leaving your Monstera plants struggling to get the necessary moisture amounts.
- Roots will appear on the top layer of your soil. When there’s not enough room for the Monstera roots within the soil, they go outward. They do so to find adequate nutrients and moisture. If you notice these roots appearing at the top soil layer, your Monstera pot is relatively small.
- Roots grow via drainage holes. If the Monstera roots grow through the pot’s drainage holes, it’s too small. Thus, moving your Monstera plants from a small pot to a bigger one will be best. The roots may even start twining around the pot’s base. That usually happens between the saucer and the Monstera pot.
- Your Monstera plant’s growth slows down. When your Monsteras don’t have space for their root growth, you’ll experience a root bound. And when that happens, a root-bound plant will struggle to get nutrients and moisture. Unfortunately, the Monstera plants may not get what they want if they’re root bound. That’ll harbor their growth, slowing it down since they’ll lack resources for flourishing.
- Plants will be unstable. If your Monsteras become tipsy or top-heavy, your pot is relatively small. Also, the same is true when your Monstera plants jostle sideways. All that makes the tiny pot unable to support your Monstera plant’s weight.
Signs your Monstera pot is too big
- Your potting mix or soil remains moist and won’t dry out. Huge pots mean there’s room for your potting mix. While a good potting mix is essential to your Monstera’s growth, too much is risky. That’s so since too much potting mix means excess moisture. Thus, the soil becomes moist for too long, causing fungal disease and root rot.
- Your soil is compacted, or it’s too loose. Large pots with excess soil can also be detrimental to your Monsteras. That’s because the soil will become stiff around the Monstera roots. Also, the soil may become compacted after several repeated waterings. Overall, your Monstera will suffer when growing in soils within pots that are extra large.
Do Monsteras Like Big Pots?
Monstera plants like pots that offer enough space for their roots to flourish. In practical terms, that’ll mean there must be between one and two soil inches between the following:
- The Monstera plant root ball.
- Sides of this Monstera pot.
What kind of pots do Monsteras like?
Monstera houseplants don’t care about the pot you’ll grow it in. That’s so since it’ll have room for its roots to grow. And also the soil to drain adequately. One can pick pots that one like. Unfortunately, it’s your role to ensure your Monstera plant’s needs are met.
Do Monsteras Need Drainage Holes?
Since Monsteras need evenly moist soil, it suffers when it remains moist. Thus, your Monsteras will need plant pots with drainage holes. These drainage holes are essential.
They let excess moisture run via the soil whenever you water the Monsteras. Further, sufficient drainage is helpful as it helps prevent soggy soil.
Bare in mind that you can still drill some draining holes if your Monstera pots lack any. For the drilling, you’ll need some appropriate drill bits. Also, one can use decorative pots as cache pots.
These cache pots help you grow your Monsteras in plain plastic pots tucked into them.
Is Terracotta Good for Monstera?
Terracotta material is suitable for your Monstera plant. That’s only when you understand how different terracotta pots affect moisture levels. That way, you can avoid issues coming from overwatering your plants accidentally.
Glazed terracotta pots. Manufacturers seal glazed terracotta pots with decorative or clear glaze. Further, they’re non-porous, functioning similarly to ceramic or plastic pots. Also, they retain moisture, keeping your soil wet for an extended period.
Unglazed terracotta pots. Manufacturers don’t seal unglazed pots. Thus, they’re porous. The pot may absorb moisture from the soil, then release it into the air. Then again, porous pots can cause the soil to dry faster. Thus, leaving your Monsteras scrounging for moisture.
So, can Monsteras be potted in terracotta?
Monstera plants always thrive in pots that give their roots adequate space to grow. Also, such pots should have well-drained soil. I recommend potting your Monstera plants in glazed or unglazed terracotta pots.
But that’s after you’ve understood their usage’s subtle nuances.
What to Use for a Large Plant Pot for Monstera?
Large urns
There’s always something toxic/mysterious about towering an urn with a decorative design. And when you use the urns as cache pots for Monsteras, they create stunning displays. You can buy these urns at local garden centers. But remember, pay attention to the urns sold at discount stores.
Decorative bowls
Similar to decorative urns, their counterparts’ bowls make perfect cache pots for Monsteras. So, look for such bowls at the following:
- Discount stores
- Yard sales
- Estate or antique sales
Mix and match some colors and sizes to add a color splash to your favorite Monstera collection.
Decorative tubs
There’s always a decorative tub of the right shape/size that can help you show off some Monsteras. And that’s whether you like the following:
- An old country washtub
- A wooden washtub
Use these decorative tubs as cache pots for your large Monstera plants. Or gather together some tiny pots to fill the decorative tub.
Wooden Barrels
Wooden barrels come in different sizes and shapes, making dramatic planters for your Monsteras. You can pick from the following unique pots for your Monstera plants:
- Standard potato barrels
- Antique nail barrels
- Whiskey barrel planters
Wooden barrels need strong and durable wood to withstand the elements and the weight of the soil and plants.
The best wood for a planter box is one that is rot-resistant, such as cedar or redwood. These woods can withstand moisture and insect damage, making them perfect for outdoor use.
If you plan to use a wooden barrel as a planter, be sure to choose a high-quality barrel made of sturdy wood that will last for years to come.
Best Pot for Monstera Plant Reviews
D’vine Dev Set of 3 Plastic Planter Pots
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You’ll fall in with this D’vine Dev set of three planter pots. Their makeup consists of a matte finish and premium plastic.
They’re the best way of bringing texture and color into indoor/outdoor spaces.
Further, these cylindrical planters are best for growing the following;
- Monstera
- Herbs
- Flowers
Their seamless construction and unique design let them sit on all surfaces. Fortunately, they do so without damaging your furniture or floors. Also, they’re perfect as hanging planters.
Further to its drainage hole, attach a saucer. Doing that helps you be ready for planting and avoiding root rot.
Fox & Fern 8″ Plant Pot
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These Fox & Fern tiny pots are versatile and modern planters. Their makeup consists of durable fiber stones. Also, they weigh 70 percent as much as concrete or ceramic pots.
Further, they’ve got sturdy bases with inbuilt drainage plugs/drainage holes. These structures help do the following:
- Keep the soil dry
- Prevent root rot
Kazeila Plant Pots with Glazed Finish
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Kazeila plant pots’ makeups have high-quality ceramic materials. Also, these pots from Kazeila are eco-friendly and durable. Further, their frosted surfaces will make breathing for your Monsteras straightforward.
Elsewhere, Kinzela designed these pots for usage outdoors/indoors without fading.
FAQs
What are the best pots for Monstera deliciosa?
Unglazed clay/terracotta are the best monstera deliciosa pots. That’s because, with terracotta, they’ll dry out your Monsteras when there’s excess moisture. Grow monstera in terracotta pot if you’ve got a habit of overwatering or if your Monsteras will stay outdoors in rainy areas.
How big of a pot for Monstera deliciosa?
If your Monsteras are still babies, they’ll need smaller pots. Moreover, the pots should have an 8-inch or 20-cm diameter.
Further, mature Monsteras can get to pot sizes up to 60 cm (two feet). Depending on the growth rate of your Monsteras, they may need repotting. You’ll do so after one to three years.
Do Monstera like small pots?
Monsteras will always love it when you cramp them in pots. So, they’ll still grow huge in any pot size. When you pot your Monsteras in huge pots, they won’t grow any more significantly or faster. Most likely, they’ll get root rot from the excess moist soil. Also, huge pots direct extra energy to the roots’ growth instead of the leaves growth.
What size pot does a Monstera need?
The pot size pick for your Monstera depends on how big it is. So, if you’ve got a baby Monstera, go for smaller pots. Always measure the plant’s pot size to ensure the diameter is no more than 20 cm (eight inches). As for mature Monsteras, a 60 cm or two feet diameter will work.
Does Monstera need drainage?
A Monstera thrives within a well-draining potting mix. Importantly, premium potting mixes are an excellent place to start. But succulent/cacti mixes or chunky orchid mixes work great. That’s because they help with drainage.
What is the best pot for Monstera adansonii?
You can use any pot type, provided it has adequate drainage holes. But keep in mind that your pot’s material matters. That’s because the materials affect how quickly or slowly the potting mix dries out.
Final thoughts on the best type of pot for monstera plants
If you’re growing monster plants, you need a pot that can hold up to the task.
Terracottas are the best pot for Monstera, followed by plastic, then ceramic.
Be sure to check the size and capacity of the pot before making your purchase. With the right pot, you’ll be able to grow healthy and happy plants that will thrive for years to come.
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