10 Common Problems With Monstera Plants: Treatment and Solutions

The large, glossy leaves of monstera plants, also known as Swiss cheese plants, make them popular houseplants. Plants of this type are generally easy to maintain, but their growth and general health can be affected by various problems. This article will discuss ten common problems that Monstera plant owners may encounter, along with their treatment and solutions.

10 Common Problems With Monstera Plants

Yellowing Leaves on Indoor Monstera Plants

One common reason for small leaves on Monstera plants turning yellow and drooping is inadequate sunlight. If they do not receive enough light, the leaves may turn yellow.
Another factor that can contribute to yellowing Monstera leaves at the bottom is overwatering.
Yellowing Monstera leaves that eventually drop off the plant can signify stress or an underlying issue.

By providing appropriate lighting, adjusting watering practices, and maintaining a stable environment, you can help prevent yellowing leaves and promote the overall health of your Monstera plant. While yellow leaves may not turn green again, addressing the underlying issues can prevent further yellowing and promote the growth of vibrant new leaves.

Brown Spots or Discoloration on Monstera Leaves

Monstera plants are known for their lush green leaves, but sometimes they can develop tiny brown spots or discoloration and become crispy. Various factors, including fungal leaf spots, can cause these spots. Treating brown spots caused by fungal leaf spots involves a combination of preventive measures and targeted treatments. To treat brown spots,

Cut off affected leaves: If you notice brown spots on your monstera leaves, it is important to remove them promptly. This will help prevent the spread of the infection to other parts of the plant.
Adjust Watering Practices: Overwatering can contribute to developing fungal leaf spots. Ensure your monstera plant is not in water and the soil is well-draining. Allow the soil’s top 2 inches to dry out before watering again.
Chlorothalonil, copper-based fungicides, and systemic fungicides are commonly used to control fungal diseases that cause leaf spots and discoloration.

Wilting or Drooping Monstera Plants Indoors

If you accidentally let your Monstera’s soil dry out completely, you may see leaves go limp, droop, and possibly start to brown. Another common issue that can lead to wilting or drooping leaves is over-watering. Keep a consistent watering schedule–water when the soil’s top 2-3 inches are dry. Additionally, ensure that the pot has proper drainage to allow excess water to escape.

The repotting process can temporarily stress the plant. Monstera plants have sensitive root systems; disturbing them during repotting can cause the leaves to droop or even drop. This is often a result of the plant redirecting its energy toward root growth rather than leaf maintenance. Providing adequate water and maintaining a consistent humidity level can aid recovery.

Pests Infesting Monstera Plants in the Home

Thrips are tiny and slender insects that feed on the sap of Monstera leaves, causing them to turn pale and distorted. To get rid of thrips, you can use insecticidal soap or else neem oil spray to control their population.
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that often appear as tiny red or brown dots on the undersides of leaves, leaving behind a fine webbing. To eliminate spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to control their population effectively.
Flying bugs, such as fungus gnats or whiteflies, can also become a nuisance for Monstera plants. To get rid of these pests, You can use sticky traps or beneficial nematodes to catch and control these pests effectively.

Monstera Plants Not Growing New Leaves

Monstera plants may struggle to grow new leaves when propagating through cuttings. However, it is common for Monstera cuttings to experience difficulties in leaf growth. To encourage leaf growth in Monstera cuttings, provide adequate moisture, sufficient light, and a well-draining soil mix.

In case you missed it: 8 Reasons for Monstera Plant Leaf Brown Spots: Treatment, Prevention, and Solutions

Repotting Monstera plants can sometimes lead to a temporary halt in leaf growth. However, repotting can cause stress to the plant, resulting in a stopping of leaf growth, be patient and provide the plant with proper care, including regular watering, adequate light, and an appropriate potting mix.

Root Rot or Overwatering Issues in Monstera Plants

Root rot can be spread from one plant to another. The fungal spores are airborne and can be transmitted by insects and dirty gardening tools. Signs of root rot in Monstera plants include wilting leaves, yellowing or browning leaves, and a foul smell from the soil. Additionally, the plant may show signs of stunted growth or a decline in overall health.

Remove the affected Monstera plant from the soil and inspect the roots. Trim any rotting or damaged roots using clean and sterile tools. To use hydrogen peroxide for treating root rot in Monstera, mix one tablespoon of 3% strength peroxide and one cup of water. This can be used directly on the roots after pruning or as a supplemental oxidization treatment during watering.

Yellow or Curling Leaves on Monstera Plants

Monstera leaves will curl downwards when the plant is stressed from heat or lacking nutrients.
Monstera leaves curl outward to reduce the exposed surface area and minimize water loss through transpiration.
When Monstera leaves are exposed to direct sunlight for a long period of the day, they will begin to blister, yellow, and curl up.
Monstera leaves may also curl after repotting. This is often due to the plant going through a period of adjustment.

Finding the right balance and watering the Monstera plant when the soil’s top 2 inches feel dry. When repotting, ensure that the new pot has proper drainage and that the plant is not in excess water.

Leaf Edges Turning Brown on Indoor Monstera Plants

In dry indoor conditions, the lack of moisture in the air can lead the leaf edges and tips to turn brown and become crispy. To treat this, increasing humidity levels around the plant is advisable. This can be done by using a humidifier, placing a tray of water near the plant, or misting the leaves regularly.

In some cases, the browning of leaf edges may be a natural part of the Monstera plant’s growth process. As new leaves unfurl, they may initially appear brown or have brown patches. This is nothing to be alarmed about, as these leaves will gradually develop their characteristic vibrant green coloration over time.

Lack of Humidity Affecting Monstera Plant Health

Combat the lack of humidity is misting the Monstera plant. Misting involves spraying water onto the plant leaves, creating a fine mist that helps increase the moisture in the surrounding air. But how often should you mist your Monstera plant? It is important to strike a balance, as under-misting and over-misting can negatively affect the plant’s health. As a general guideline, misting your Monstera plant every 2-3 days is recommended. This allows the plant to benefit from the increased humidity without risking the negative consequences of over-misting.

Inadequate Light Causing Problems for Monstera Plants

When kept in low-light conditions, Monstera plants struggle to photosynthesize effectively, resulting in various leaf problems like stunted growth. Furthermore, insufficient light can cause leaf discoloration. Monstera plants may shed their leaves when deprived of proper light conditions. This can affect the overall aesthetics of the plant and indicate its struggle to survive.

In case you missed it: How to Tell if Monstera Plant Needs Repotting: 10 Signs You Need to Look For

To address these issues, providing adequate light for Monstera plants is essential. Ideally, they should be placed in a location that receives bright and indirect sunlight for several hours daily. If natural light is limited, supplemental artificial lighting, such as fluorescent or LED grow lights, can be used to ensure the plant receives sufficient light.

Conclusion

By being aware of these common problems and their respective treatments, you can ensure the health and vitality of your Monstera plant. Regular monitoring, proper care, and timely intervention will help your plant thrive and beautify your indoor space for years.

10 Common Problems With Monstera Plants: Treatment and Solutions