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Monstera deliciosa leaves curling is usually a sign that your plant is stressed.
Your monstera deliciosa leaves curling can be caused by a handful of common issues, but the good news is most of them are easy to fix.
If you’ve noticed your monstera deliciosa leaves curling, don’t panic—it’s a very common problem among houseplant parents.
In this post, we’ll dive into the main reasons why monstera deliciosa leaves curl and exactly how to get them looking lush and flat again.
Let’s get to the root of the issue.
Why Monstera Deliciosa Leaves Curl
Monstera deliciosa leaves curl when the plant is trying to conserve water or protect itself from an unfavorable environment.
Understanding the specific trigger is the first step to nursing your plant back to health.
Let’s break down the most common culprits behind monstera deliciosa leaves curling.
1. Underwatering Is the Most Common Cause
Underwatering is the number one reason your monstera deliciosa leaves are curling.
When the soil dries out completely, the roots can’t deliver moisture to the leaves.
The leaf cells lose turgor pressure, which is the internal water pressure that keeps them firm and flat.
As a result, monstera deliciosa leaves curl inward to reduce the surface area and limit water loss through evaporation.
You’ll often notice the leaves feeling thin, crispy, or slightly droopy alongside the curling.
The fix is simple: give your plant a thorough drink until water runs out of the drainage holes.
Check the top inch of soil regularly and water when it feels dry to the touch.
2. Overwatering Can Also Cause Curling
It might sound counterintuitive, but overwatering is just as likely to cause monstera deliciosa leaves curling as underwatering.
When the soil stays soggy, the roots suffocate and can’t absorb oxygen.
Root rot sets in, and the damaged roots fail to take up water properly.
Even though there’s plenty of moisture, the leaves still curl because they’re not getting hydrated from the roots.
If your monstera deliciosa leaves are curling and the soil is wet, you likely have a watering imbalance.
Let the soil dry out more between waterings and ensure your pot has excellent drainage.
If root rot is severe, you may need to repot the plant with fresh, well-draining soil.
3. Low Humidity Stresses the Leaves
Monsteras are tropical plants that thrive in humid environments.
When the air is too dry, often in winter or in air-conditioned rooms, monstera deliciosa leaves curl as a defense mechanism.
The plant loses moisture through its leaves faster than its roots can replace it.
This is especially noticeable if the leaf tips are also browning or getting crispy edges.
To fix monstera deliciosa leaves curling from low humidity, increase the moisture in the air.
You can use a humidifier, place a pebble tray with water under the pot, or group your plants together.
Misting helps temporarily but isn’t a long-term solution for consistent humidity.
Environmental Factors That Cause Monstera Deliciosa Leaves Curling
Sometimes the issue isn’t about water at all—it’s about where your plant is sitting.
Light and temperature play a huge role in keeping your monstera happy and its leaves flat.
1. Too Much Direct Sunlight
Monstera deliciosa leaves curling can be a direct response to harsh, direct sunlight.
In the wild, monsteras grow under the canopy of larger trees, receiving dappled, indirect light.
When you place them in a south-facing window with intense direct sun, the leaves can scorch.
The plant curls its leaves to reduce the leaf surface exposed to the burning rays.
You may also see brown, crispy patches on the leaves where the sun hit them.
Move your monstera to a spot with bright, indirect light, like near an east-facing window or a few feet away from a south-facing one.
2. Temperature Stress
Sudden temperature swings can shock your monstera and cause monstera deliciosa leaves curling.
They prefer consistent temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C).
If your plant is near a drafty window, an AC vent, or a heat register, it might curl up.
Cold drafts are particularly problematic and can make the leaves curl tightly.
Keep your monstera away from any direct sources of heat or cold air.
Maintaining a stable room temperature will help your monstera deliciosa leaves uncurl over time.
Pests and Nutrient Deficiencies That Cause Curling
If your watering, humidity, light, and temperature are all on point, you might be dealing with something else.
Pests and lack of nutrients can also lead to monstera deliciosa leaves curling.
1. Spider Mites and Other Sap-Sucking Pests
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap right out of your monstera leaves.
This feeding damage weakens the leaf structure and causes monstera deliciosa leaves curling.
You might see fine webbing on the undersides of the leaves, along with tiny yellow or white speckles.
Check the undersides of the leaves regularly for any signs of pests.
If you find an infestation, wipe down the leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
It may take a few treatments, but your monstera will thank you once it’s pest-free.
2. Nutrient Deficiencies
As a fast-growing plant, monstera deliciosa needs a steady supply of nutrients.
A lack of essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, or calcium can cause leaf curling.
These nutrients help regulate water movement within the plant and support cell wall strength.
If your monstera deliciosa leaves are curling and you haven’t fertilized in a while, it might be hungry.
Feed it with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season.
Just be careful not to over-fertilize, as too much salt in the soil can also cause root damage and curling.
How to Fix Monstera Deliciosa Leaves Curling Quickly
Once you’ve identified the likely cause, taking action is the best way to help your plant recover.
Here’s a quick action plan to get those leaves flat again.
1. Check the Soil Moisture First
Stick your finger about two inches into the soil.
If it’s bone dry, water thoroughly.
If it’s soggy, hold off on watering and let it dry out.
This will help you correct any watering issues that cause monstera deliciosa leaves curling.
2. Adjust the Environment
Move your plant to a spot with bright, indirect light and stable temperatures.
Boost humidity levels with a humidifier or pebble tray.
Removing environmental stress helps the plant focus on recovery rather than survival.
3. Inspect and Treat for Pests
Take a close look at the leaves, especially the undersides.
If you spot pests, treat them immediately.
Regularly wiping the leaves with a damp cloth also keeps them clean and able to photosynthesize properly.
This reduces the likelihood of future monstera deliciosa leaves curling.
So, Why Are My Monstera Deliciosa Leaves Curling?
Monstera deliciosa leaves curling is almost always a sign of environmental or watering stress.
Whether it’s underwatering, overwatering, low humidity, or too much sun, the fix is about restoring balance.
By checking the soil, adjusting the light and humidity, and inspecting for pests, you can solve the problem.
Remember to make one change at a time so you can pinpoint exactly what was causing your monstera deliciosa leaves curling.
Once you correct the issue, your monstera will usually uncurl its leaves within a few days to a week.
Keep an eye on your plant, and soon those beautiful, fenestrated leaves will be flat, firm, and thriving again.