Why Doesn’t My Monstera Have Holes? | GardenWrld Plant Care

If you brought home a monstera plant and noticed its leaves look more like a regular houseplant than the dramatic, hole-filled ones you see online, you’re not alone. Many plant parents wonder: “Why doesn’t my monstera have holes?” The good news? It’s usually part of the plant’s natural growth cycle.

Young Monsteras Start Without Holes

One of the most common reasons your monstera doesn’t have fenestrations (the botanical term for holes or splits) is age. Baby monstera plants produce solid, heart-shaped leaves. As the plant matures, new growth will begin to show splits and holes. Patience is key—the bigger your plant gets, the more dramatic its leaves will become.

Light Plays a Huge Role

Monsteras come from tropical rainforests, where their large leaves climb toward sunlight peeking through the canopy. Without enough bright, indirect light, your monstera may not feel the need to produce fenestrated leaves. Place it near a bright window, but avoid direct harsh sun that can scorch the leaves.

Nutrition and Growth Conditions

A monstera needs energy to produce its iconic holes. If your plant isn’t getting the right nutrients, it may stick to smaller, solid leaves. Fertilize during the growing season with a balanced houseplant fertilizer to give it the boost it needs.

Space to Climb

In nature, monsteras are climbers. When given a moss pole or support to latch onto, they often grow larger, stronger leaves with fenestrations. Without vertical support, your plant may grow more slowly and produce smaller, hole-free leaves.

Don’t Worry—It’s Natural

If your monstera still has no holes, don’t panic. It doesn’t mean anything is “wrong.” With time, light, food, and proper care, your monstera will eventually reward you with the beautiful, split leaves it’s famous for.

Final Tips for Encouraging Holes in Your Monstera

• Place it in bright, indirect light

• Feed with a balanced fertilizer during growing season

• Give it a moss pole or stake to climb

• Be patient—fenestrations often appear once the plant is at least a year old

FAQ: Monstera Without Holes

Q: How long does it take for a monstera to get holes?
A: Most monsteras start showing holes after their first year of growth, but it depends on light, nutrition, and overall care.

Q: Will my monstera ever get holes if it’s grown indoors?
A: Yes! With enough light and support, even indoor monsteras will eventually produce fenestrations.

Q: Do all monstera leaves get holes?
A: Not always. Even on mature plants, some leaves may stay solid depending on conditions or growth cycles.

Q: Can I cut holes in my monstera leaves to make them look mature?
A: It’s not recommended. Artificially cutting leaves won’t encourage healthy growth. Let the plant produce natural fenestrations in its own time.

Q: What’s the difference between Monstera deliciosa and Monstera adansonii?
A: Monstera deliciosa develops large splits and holes as it matures, while Monstera adansonii (often called the “Swiss cheese plant”) naturally produces smaller leaves with multiple holes at a younger age.