How To Pick A Monstera Plant

How to pick a monstera plant starts with examining the leaves, stems, and roots for signs of good health.
 
Picking a monstera plant isn’t complicated, but it does take a little know-how so you don’t end up with a plant that looks great for a week and then crashes.
 
When you learn how to pick a monstera plant the right way, you’ll set yourself up for years of beautiful, fenestrated leaves and easy care.
 
In this post, we’ll cover how to pick a monstera plant from a nursery, how to spot red flags, and the best places to find your new green friend.
 
Let’s get into it.
 
You don’t need to be a plant expert to make a smart choice, but a few simple tricks will save you from heartbreak later.
 
Whether you’re shopping for your first monstera or your fifth, these tips will make the whole process way less stressful.
 

How to Pick a Monstera Plant: Key Things to Check

When you’re asking how to pick a monstera plant, you want to focus on the parts of the plant that tell you the most about its overall health.
 

1. Look at the Leaves First

The leaves are the easiest way to judge how to pick a monstera plant that’s thriving.
 
Healthy monstera leaves should be a deep, rich green without brown spots, yellowing edges, or curling tips.
 
When you pick a monstera plant, gently run your fingers over the leaves to feel for any sticky residue, which can signal pests.
 
Also, check the underside of the leaves because that’s where spider mites and other tiny bugs like to hide.
 
If you’re wondering how to pick a monstera plant with nice fenestrations, look for leaves that already have those iconic splits and holes, though younger plants may not have them yet.
 

2. Inspect the Stems

Stems are the backbone of your future monstera, so they matter big time when you’re learning how to pick a monstera plant.
 
You want stems that stand tall and firm rather than looking droopy or bent.
 
Give the stems a gentle squeeze, and if they feel mushy, that’s a huge red flag and you should move on to another plant.
 
Picking a monstera plant with strong stems means you’re getting a plant that can support those big, dramatic leaves as it grows.
 

3. Check the Roots

Roots are a little trickier to inspect, but they’re essential to know how to pick a monstera plant that will thrive.
 
If the monstera is in a clear nursery pot, peek at the roots through the drainage holes.
 
You’re looking for white or light tan roots that look plump and healthy, not dark, slimy, or smelly ones.
 
When you pick a monstera plant that’s rootbound, you’ll see roots circling the bottom of the pot, and that’s okay as long as they’re firm and not rotting.
 

Red Flags to Avoid When You Pick a Monstera Plant

Knowing how to pick a monstera plant also means knowing what to walk away from.
 

1. Yellow or Brown Leaves

A few yellow leaves at the bottom can be normal, but if you see widespread yellowing, that monstera has likely been overwatered.
 
Brown, crispy edges often mean the plant was underwatered or exposed to too much direct sun.
 
Either way, picking a monstera plant with these issues means you’re starting with a plant that’s already stressed.
 

2. Pests and Webbing

Always inspect the plant for pests before you decide to pick a monstera plant.
 
Look for tiny webs between leaves and stems, which are a classic sign of spider mites.
 
You should also check for small white dots or cottony masses, which could be mealybugs.
 
If you spot any of these, it’s best to skip that plant because pests can spread to your other houseplants fast.
 
Don’t forget to check the crevices where the leaf meets the stem, which is prime real estate for bugs.
 

3. Mushy or Foul-Smelling Soil

Stick your finger about an inch into the soil before you pick a monstera plant.
 
If the soil is soggy and smells sour or rotten, the roots are likely already suffering from root rot.
 
A healthy monstera should be in well-draining soil that’s slightly damp, not completely waterlogged.
 

Where to Find the Best Monstera Plants

Part of knowing how to pick a monstera plant is knowing where to shop.
 

1. Local Nurseries and Garden Centers

Your local nursery is often the best spot to pick a monstera plant because you can see the plant in person and inspect every leaf.
 
Plus, the staff there usually know exactly how their plants were cared for.
 
You can ask them questions, and they’ll help you pick a monstera plant that fits your space and experience level.
 

2. Big Box Stores

Big box stores can be hit or miss when you’re trying to pick a monstera plant.
 
You might find a great deal, but the plants are often mass-produced and may not have the best care.
 
If you do shop there, be extra thorough with your inspection using the tips above.
 

3. Online Shops and Etsy

Online shopping makes it easy to pick a monstera plant from the comfort of your couch.
 
Just read the reviews carefully and look for sellers who show photos of the actual plant you’ll receive.
 
When your monstera arrives, inspect it right away and reach out to the seller if anything looks off.
 

So, How Do You Pick a Monstera Plant?

How to pick a monstera plant comes down to checking the leaves, stems, and roots while avoiding common red flags like pests and root rot.
 
It’s totally doable, and once you know what to look for, picking a monstera plant becomes a fun part of the plant-buying experience.
 
Just remember to take your time, shop at a place you trust, and trust your instincts when something feels off.
 
Now you’re ready to go out and pick a monstera plant that will grow into a stunning, jungle-worthy centerpiece for your home.
 
Happy plant hunting.