Will the leaves uncurl after I water?

If the curling is due to mild underwatering, the leaves will often perk up and flatten out within a day or two. If they have been curled for a long time, they might stay slightly deformed.

Should I mist the leaves to help with curling?

Misting only provides temporary relief and does not solve the humidity issue. A humidifier or pebble tray is much more effective.

Why are my monstera leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is bone dry.
Check if the leaf edges feel crispy or papery.
Look at the humidity levels in your room.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel thin and papery, and the edges begin to curl inward. The soil will feel completely dry and pull away from the sides of the pot.
What to do: Give the plant a thorough watering until water runs out of the drainage holes. Ensure the top two inches of soil stay moist but not soggy. Check the soil every 7 days to keep it consistent.
Low humidity
Possible
How to tell: The leaf edges curl and turn crispy or brown. This happens most often in winter when indoor heating dries out the air.
What to do: Place a humidifier near your plant to increase moisture levels. You can also group plants together to create a more humid microclimate. Avoid placing the plant directly in front of a heater.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your swiss cheese plant

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Curling is usually a sign of thirst and is easy to fix. You should only worry if the leaves remain curled after you have watered the plant and increased the humidity.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your monstera away from dry heat sources and maintain a regular watering rhythm. Monitoring the soil moisture weekly prevents the plant from getting too dry.

Swiss Cheese Plant: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your swiss cheese plant and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

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Questions people ask

Will the leaves uncurl after I water?: If the curling is due to mild underwatering, the leaves will often perk up and flatten out within a day or two. If they have been curled for a long time, they might stay slightly deformed.
Should I mist the leaves to help with curling?: Misting only provides temporary relief and does not solve the humidity issue. A humidifier or pebble tray is much more effective.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my monstera leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your swiss cheese plant?