Why Your Monstera Leaves Don’t Have Holes (And How to Fix It)

Meet the Iconic Monstera Deliciosa

If you’ve recently picked up a Monstera Deliciosa, you’re probably waiting for those iconic "cheese" holes to appear. It’s the main reason we all buy them, right?

But sometimes, your Monstera just keeps pushing out solid heart-shaped leaves, leaving you wondering if you bought the wrong plant or if it’s just unhappy. I’ve been there too.

Here’s the lowdown on why those holes (the pros call it fenestration) happen and how you can actually encourage your plant to grow them.

1. Why do they even have holes?

It’s not just for the 'aesthetic.' In the wild, Monsteras are climbers. They grow under the canopy of giant trees in tropical rainforests.

• Letting the light through: The holes allow sunlight to reach the lower leaves so the whole plant stays healthy.
• Surviving the storm: Those huge leaves would snap in a heavy rainstorm if they were solid. The holes let the wind and rain pass right through.
• It’s a maturity thing: Just like us, Monsteras have a "baby" phase. If your plant is young, be patient. The holes are a sign it’s growing up.

2. How to get those "Swiss Cheese" leaves

If your Monstera is over a year old and still doesn't have splits, you probably need to change a few things.

• Give it way more light than you think

Most "care tags" say low light. That’s a lie. While they won't die in low light, they won't grow holes either.
The fix: Move it closer to a bright, east or south-facing window. If it's too dark, the plant thinks, "Why waste energy on fancy holes? I just need more green surface to catch light."

• Stop drowning it (The Overwatering Trap)

Monsteras hate "wet feet." If the leaves are turning yellow or brown at the tips, check the soil.

The fix: Stick your finger in the dirt. If the top two inches are still damp, put the watering can down. Let it dry out a bit.

• Give it something to climb

Since they are natural climbers, a moss pole is a game-changer. When the plant feels supported, the leaves naturally start getting bigger and more "holy."

3. Quick Checklist: Is your Monstera happy?

Happy Plant ✅	Struggling Plant ❌
Sturdy, thick stems	Long, skinny, "stretchy" stems
Deep green, shiny leaves	Pale or yellowish leaves
Multiple splits and holes	Small, solid heart-shaped leaves

4. Final Thought

Don't stress if your Monstera is still "solid." Every plant grows at its own pace. Just check your lighting and make sure you aren't overwatering, and you'll see those beautiful splits soon enough.

Got a Monstera story or a struggle? Drop a comment below—I’d love to help you out!

 

Visit Us at Greenfingers

Thanks for reading! All the plants you see in my posts are lovingly raised right here at Greenfingers. We specialize in healthy, vibrant tropical plants and want to share the joy of gardening with the world.

If you’re a plant lover traveling through South Korea, feel free to stop by and say hello!

• Farm Name: Greenfingers (그린핑거스)
• Location: 42-6, Munbak-gil, Nangseong-myeon, Sangdang-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea
• Postal Code: 28182
• Connect with us: https://www.instagram.com/greenfingers.center/

"Growing happiness, one leaf at a time."