Monstera plants are a popular houseplant, prized for their large, split leaves. However, if you notice the leaves of your monstera plant turning yellow, it can be a sign that something is wrong. Thankfully, with the right steps, you can manage yellowing monstera leaves and return your plant to its lush, vibrant state. We will discuss the causes of yellow leaves, how to diagnose the problem, and the steps you can take to restore your monstera plant.
There are a number of different popular varieties of monstera that can experience yellowing leaves for similar reasons. Monstera Deliciosa is a popular houseplant due to its dramatic foliage. It has large, glossy, dark green leaves that are split or perforated to create a unique, lacy look. It is a climbing vine, so it needs support or a trellis to grow up. It can grow to a height of up to 20 feet and can live 40 or more years. It prefers moderate to bright indirect light and should be watered regularly.
Monstera Adansonii is a tropical evergreen vine native to Central and South America. It has heart-shaped leaves with deep lobes and fenestrations. It can grow up to 10 feet tall, and often requires a trellis or other support to climb. The leaves are a deep green color with lighter green patches in between the lobes.
Monstera Obliqua is a species of evergreen, climbing, aroid vine native to the rainforest regions of Central and South America. It is a member of the Araceae family and is known for its deep green, heart-shaped leaves with unique, irregularly-shaped holes. The plant is often used as a decorative houseplant and is prized for its ability to grow quickly and produce large, decorative foliage. It is relatively easy to care for and can tolerate low light levels and irregular watering.
Identifying The Problem
Monstera leaves turning yellow is a common problem for plant owners. It is important to identify the root cause of the problem before treating the plant. First, check the soil moisture level to see if the plant is receiving too much or too little water. If the soil is too dry, water the plant and check the soil moisture level again.
Secondly, check the amount of light the plant is receiving. While monstera plants do best in bright indirect light, they can suffer from too much sun exposure. If the plant is in too much direct sunlight, move it to a shadier spot. Lastly, inspect the plant for signs of pests or diseases. If any pests or diseases are present, treat the plant accordingly.
How To Treat Monstera Leaves Turning Yellow
If the soil is already moist, make sure you are not overwatering. Yellowing of the leaves can occur if the soil is too wet due to root rot. Same with underwatering – if your plant is too dry, it may not be getting enough water to thrive. The soil should be damp but not sopping wet.
Also, make sure your plant is getting enough light. Monsteras can tolerate some shade but prefer bright, indirect light for 6-8 hours a day. Some varieties of Monstera will do better in lower light conditions than others. Finally, check for pests and treat them accordingly.
Pests can be a common cause of yellowing monstera leaves and should be treated as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Start by inspecting the leaves for any signs of pests, such as aphids, mealybugs, mites, or scale. If any are found, use a sharp stream of water to rinse them off the leaves. You can also use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove any pests that are harder to reach. If the infestation is more severe, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil and repeat treatments as directed. Monitor the plant for any additional signs of pests and take action as soon as possible to help prevent further damage to the leaves.
Monstera Leaves Turning Yellow From Disease
Monstera leaves turning yellow can be a sign of various diseases. To treat these diseases it is important to identify the exact cause and then take steps to address it. This may involve removing any infected leaves, improving drainage, and increasing airflow around the plant. Fungal and bacterial diseases may require the use of specialized treatments. Such as fungicides or bactericides, and it is important to follow the instructions on the product label. In general, it is also beneficial to maintain a regular watering schedule and provide adequate light for the plant.
Pruning Your Monstera Plant
Pruning monstera leaves that have turned yellow is an important part of maintaining the health and beauty of your plant. First, use a pair of pruning shears to cut off any dead or yellowing leaves that are lower down on the stem. Make sure to cut the stem just above the node or the small bumps on the stem so that the plant is able to form new leaves from the same stem.
Next, if there are any yellow leaves that are still connected to the stem, they can be carefully pulled off with your hands. Finally, use a small pair of scissors to trim off any brown tips that may have formed on the remaining leaves. By following these simple pruning steps, your monstera will remain healthy and vibrant.