{"id":1297,"date":"2023-09-17T06:33:59","date_gmt":"2023-09-17T06:33:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/myindoorflora.com\/?page_id=1297"},"modified":"2023-09-17T06:34:07","modified_gmt":"2023-09-17T06:34:07","slug":"growing-sideways","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/myindoorflora.com\/houseplants\/monstera\/growing-sideways\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Is My Monstera Growing Sideways?: [8 Reasons & Fixes]"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Monstera deliciosa, often simply called Monstera, is a tropical plant native to the rainforests of Central America. Scientifically classified within the Araceae family, this striking plant is known for its unique, split leaves and its ability to adapt to various indoor conditions. In a controlled environment, Monstera deliciosa usually grows to a height of 6 to 10 feet and showcases a climbing habit facilitated by aerial roots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why is your Monstera growing sideways instead of upwards? The most common reason for this atypical growth direction is insufficient light, leading the plant to stretch out in search of better lighting conditions. Addressing this issue is crucial for the balanced, vertical growth of your Monstera.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This article covers a comprehensive range of factors that influence the growth direction of your Monstera. From light conditions, space, and pruning techniques to soil quality, pests, and even genetic factors, we’ll guide you through actionable solutions for each contributing factor. You’ll learn not just how to correct sideways growth but also how to optimize the overall health and beauty of your Monstera.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. The Prime Suspect: Why Light Matters Most<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to solving the sideways growth mystery of your Monstera, think of light as your prime suspect. It’s not just about turning on a light switch; there are various factors at play here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You remember photosynthesis from school, right? It’s the process by which plants convert light into energy. Without sufficient light, your Monstera can’t perform photosynthesis effectively. This leads to weaker stems and leaves, which in turn makes your Monstera more likely to grow sideways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Phototropism<\/strong> is the phenomenon that explains why your Monstera grows towards the light. In a low-light environment, your Monstera will stretch itself out to find a light source, often leading to unbalanced and sideways growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Types of Light and Their Impact<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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  1. Direct Light<\/strong>: Generally too harsh for Monsteras and can cause leaf burn.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Indirect Light<\/strong>: Ideal for Monsteras; bright but not directly hitting the plant.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Low Light<\/strong>: Not sufficient for healthy growth and likely leads to sideways growth.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
    Light Type<\/th>Effects on Monstera<\/th>Recommended?<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
    Direct<\/td>Leaf burn<\/td>No<\/td><\/tr>
    Indirect<\/td>Healthy growth<\/td>Yes<\/td><\/tr>
    Low<\/td>Sideways growth<\/td>No<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>
    Table: Light Conditions and Their Effects<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    How to Fix the Light Problem<\/h3>\n\n\n\n