Table of Contents
A Guide To Indoor & Outdoor Monstera Cold Tolerance
Are you worried about your Monstera cold tolerance when trying to find the perfect indoor or outdoor spot for this popular houseplant? Worry no more with our detailed guide covering everything you need to know to keep your Monstera happy and thriving below its ideal 65-85℉ range.
Monstera Cold Tolerance: Effects & Symptoms
Yellow or Brown Leaves
Leaf color is a significant indicator of the Monstera’s overall well-being, and exposure to cold temperatures can cause leaves to yellow or brown. This is due to the plant’s struggle to absorb nutrients and water, resulting in discoloration.
Wilting or Drooping Leaves
When leaves wilt or droop, they are usually trying to conserve moisture. Cold temperatures can cause plants to go into survival mode and close their stomata (leaf pores) to prevent water loss, leading to this stress-related effect.
Dry Leaf Tips
The tips of the leaf are one of the most sensitive areas of the Monstera, and they can become dry or brittle when exposed to cold temperatures. This is due to a lack of moisture reaching the tips of the leaves, causing them to dry out and exacerbate other common cold symptoms such as discoloration or wilting.
Scorched Leaves
Scorched leaves, or brown spots on leaves, may also appear due to cold temperatures. When the plant’s water supply is limited due to exposure to cold air, it can cause the leaf edges to dry out and turn brown. While cold may not be the only cause of scorched leaves, it can certainly contribute to this issue.
Stunted Growth
Diminished growth speed or size can result from the plant’s exposure to colder temperature ranges. When a plant’s growth is hindered by environmental factors such as cold, it can take longer for new leaves to unfurl, and the plant’s overall size may be reduced. In addition, the vines of the Monstera may also appear thinner and weaker due to slowed growth.
Dry Soil
There is nothing like the cold to diminish water retention and absorption, leading to dry soil problems. Furthermore, as the Monstera increases its metabolism to survive in colder conditions, it may also suck up more water than usual, leading to the dry soil problem.
Root Rot
Cold temperatures can also contribute to root rot in Monstera plants. When the soil becomes too cold, it can slow down the plant’s metabolic processes and make it difficult for roots to absorb water and nutrients. This can lead to an overgrowth of bacteria and fungi that cause root rot, which can ultimately kill the plant if left untreated.
Pro TipL Treat and prevent root rot easily with a set of sharp pruning shears and Monstera Root Supplement.
What Causes Monstera Plants To Be Cold?
Nighttime Air Temperature
Colder temperatures in the daytime are often not as much of an issue for Monstera plants, as they can acclimate to these conditions and adjust their metabolic processes accordingly. Plus, with the heat provided by the sun during the day, most plants can maintain their optimal temperatures.
However, when temperatures drop significantly at night, Monstera plants can experience shock and stress. And though many think that the morning rays can remove this shock, it is often not enough to revive a severely damaged Monstera sitting for hours at night in the cold.
Cold Winds or Drafts
Large leaves and the tropical look make terraces, balconies, and window sills ideal spots for Monstera. However, these areas may also be exposed to cold winds or drafts that can harm the plant.
Additionally, air conditioner systems blasting in the summertime may also cause a draft for the Monstera, leading to many of the effects and symptoms of cold damage.
Soil Temperature
The native regions of Monstera plants have consistently warm soil due to the humidity and heat of the tropical climate. As a result, the Monstera is not adapted to colder soil temperatures, which can slow down or even stop root growth and nutrient absorption.
Low soil temperature can result from placing the pot on a cold surface, such as concrete or tile, or being exposed to cool air temperatures. It can also be a result of using a watering can filled with cold rather than room-temperature water.
Ideal Temperature Range for Monstera Plants
Monstera plants thrive in a temperature range of 64-79 °F (18-26 °C). This range mimics the warm, humid conditions of the plant’s native tropical climate, ensuring healthy photosynthesis and metabolic processes.
However, indoor and outdoor growing climates may allow for some deviation from this range, and it is essential to consider each environment’s unique characteristics before placing your Monstera plant.
Indoor Monstera Cold Tolerance
Avoiding the stress response from cold tolerance issues is a lot easier when A Monstera is grown indoors. Ambient indoor temperatures are often kept within the optimal range for Monstera plants, making it easier to maintain a healthy growing environment.
While being aware of drafts from windows or air conditioning systems is vital, it’s also important to consider the following before placing your Monstera indoors:
- Avoid areas near doorways that lead to outside as the opening and closing of the door can bring in cold air
- Only keep Monstera plants near windows with proper insulation to avoid unintentional draft issues
- Avoid placing Monstera plants near floor vents, as these can create a cold draft
- Consider using a plant stand or placing the pot on top of insulating material such as wood to prevent exposure to cool surfaces
- All living spaces have a cold spot, so keep in mind the location of these areas and avoid placing your Monstera plant there
It is also wise to think about the type of pot you are using for your Monstera plant. Clay pots, while aesthetically pleasing, can absorb cold temperatures more easily and transfer them to the soil and roots of the plant. Opting for a black plastic or ceramic pot may provide better insulation for the root system.
Outdoor Monstera Cold Tolerance
Growing Monstera plants outdoors presents a unique set of challenges when it comes to cold tolerance. While outdoor temperatures may be within the ideal range for Monstera plants during warmer months, colder temperatures in fall and winter can pose a problem.
The best solution will be to move the Monstera inside during the colder months, especially if freezing temperatures (32°F or 0°C) are expected. If moving the Monstera indoors is not an option, consider wrapping the pot and plant in an insulating material that keeps cold air from directly affecting moisture on the leaves, reducing the chance of cold damage.
In addition to wrapping protection, you should also make sure that outdoor Monstera plants:
- Are located in a shady spot that gets dappled with sunlight throughout the day
- Are not exposed to direct cold winds or drafts
- Have proper drainage to avoid waterlogged soil
It may also be wise to build a trellis or use plant poles to provide extra protection and support for outdoor Monstera plants, especially during colder months. This can help prevent any cold damage caused by strong winds blowing the plant around while providing more support for the plant’s overall growth.
Caring For Monstera Plants in Cooler Weather
Reduce Watering Frequency
The dormant season for Monstera plants is typically in the fall and winter. During this time, the plant’s metabolic processes slow down, and it requires less water to thrive. It is important to note that this is different from the cold tolerance issue, where the plant is in shock and unable to absorb and use water properly.
When winter does roll around and colder temps set in, reduce the watering frequency for your Monstera plant. Let the top couple of inches of soil dry out before watering again to avoid waterlogged roots and potential rot. When in doubt, it is always better to under water than over water, so a frequency of every few weeks is typically safe for most Monstera plants.
Increase Humidity
The dry, cool air during fall and winter can also be harmful to Monstera plants. To combat this, try increasing the humidity levels around your plant by misting regularly or placing a pebble tray filled with water underneath the pot.
If your Monstera lives indoors, consider getting a humidifier or grouping your plants to create a more humid microclimate. This will help mimic their natural habitat’s warm, humid conditions and prevent cold damage.
Misting a Monstera is also an option, but like using a watering can, do so in the morning so there is time for the leaves to dry before cooler temps and darkness set in, which can lead to fungal or frost issues.
Adjust Location
While moving your Monstera in from the cold is already an excellent idea to protect it from low temperatures, adjusting its indoor location can also help. Place it in a spot that gets partial or dappled sunlight and shares a similar temperature range throughout the day.
This will prevent any drastic changes in temperature or lighting conditions that could further shock your Monstera plant. Additionally, make sure to keep your Monstera away from heating vents or radiators, as these can cause sudden fluctuations in temperature that can be detrimental to the plant’s health.
Insulate Soil
Covering the premium potting soil around your Monstera plant with mulch or insulating material can also help maintain a consistent temperature for the root system during colder seasons or in colder environments. Mulch is particularly useful for outdoor Monstera plants as it helps retain moisture and prevent waterlogged soil.
However, be careful not to over-mulch, as this can prevent oxygen from reaching the roots and cause root rot. A layer of one to two inches is typically enough for insulation purposes.
Monstera Cold Tolerance FAQ
- Can a Monstera live outside in a cold climate?
While Monstera plants can tolerate cooler temperatures, they are not suited for living outside in consistently cold climates. When temperatures drop, it is best to bring them indoors during the fall and winter months. If you cannot bring them indoors, consider providing extra protection and insulating measures to keep them healthy.
- How cold is too cold for a Monstera plant?
While a Monstera is a resilient plant that can handle low light and cooler temperatures, it is not cold hardy. When temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), the plant may start to suffer and experience stunted growth or leaf damage. Freezing temperatures can be especially harmful and should be avoided at all costs.
- Can frost damage a Monstera plant?
Yes, frost can damage a Monstera plant and should be avoided. Frost occurs when the temperature drops below freezing (32°F or 0°C) and can cause damage to the leaves, stems, and root system of a Monstera plant. It is important to take precautions to protect your Monstera from frost during colder months, such as sticking to daytime watering, insulating the pot and plant, and adjusting its location to avoid any direct exposure to cold winds or drafts.
A Warm Monstera is a Happy Monstera
Monstera cold tolerance and its ability to thrive in cooler temperatures is not a simple yes or no answer. While they can handle lower temps, it is essential to take proper precautions and provide adequate care during colder months to ensure they stay happy, healthy, and growing strong.
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