Monstera leggy growth

A monstera naturally climbs and can sprawl without support. Longer new internodes and smaller successive leaves can indicate inadequate light, but leaf splits alone are not a light meter: age and growing conditions also affect them.

Add light and support

Give the plant a bright position and a stable pole or board. Tie the main stem loosely, leaving petioles free to move. Gradually acclimate to any direct sun.

Reshape only what needs it

Once new growth improves, prune a sprawling stem above a node if needed. A cutting needs a stem node to produce a new plant; a leaf and petiole alone are insufficient. Old long stems remain long even after the light improves.