Why are Monstera leaves turning yellow?

Monstera is an evergreen vine that is often used in home interior potted plant arrangements and has great ornamental value. Although its cultivation method is not troublesome, problems such as yellowing leaves often occur if it is not cultivated properly. So what is going on? Let’s learn more about it below.

1. Air drying

Monstera particularly likes higher air humidity and can tolerate a dry environment for a period of time, but if the indoor environment is often dry, its leaves will turn yellow. Therefore, when the indoor environment is relatively dry, be sure to spray water around to increase the humidity of the environment.

2. Lack of light

Although Monstera is relatively shade-tolerant, it does not mean that it does not require light at all. If the Monstera is kept in a too dark place for a long time, the chlorophyll will gradually degenerate, causing the leaves to slowly turn yellow. Generally, it can be kept in a room with scattered light or on a south-facing balcony, and appropriate shade should be provided during the high temperatures in summer to prevent leaf burns.

3. Improper watering

If the potting soil is not watered for a long time and becomes extremely dry, the leaves will turn yellow. On the contrary, if you water too much and the soil remains wet, the leaves may turn yellow or even rot. Therefore, adjust the frequency of watering according to seasonal changes and indoor environment, and keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged.

4. Unsuitable soil

Heavy soil or long-term failure to repot, which causes the soil to become compacted, can cause the leaves of Monstera to turn yellow. The root system of Monstera is fleshy and extremely developed. The soil must have good air permeability. If the soil has poor air permeability, it will affect the growth of the plant.

5. Lack of nutrients

Iron is an essential raw material for plants to synthesize chlorophyll. If there is insufficient iron in the soil or fertilizer , it will affect the synthesis of chlorophyll in Monstera, causing the leaves to lose their green color and turn yellow. At this time, alum fertilizer water or spraying 0.1-0.3% ferrous sulfate solution should be applied in time.

6. Infection by pests and diseases

If some red spots appear on the leaves of Monstera or the leaves turn yellow overall, it may be caused by infection with pests and diseases, such as red spider mites. At this time, be sure to cut off the leaves that are seriously infected with insect pests and spray them with some soapy water in time. If the situation is serious, you can spray Jinmanzhi, Avermectin or Damanling.

In general, there are many reasons for the yellowing of Monstera leaves. It is usually caused by improper watering or dry air. It may also be affected by light, fertilization, or pests and diseases. Generally, targeted prevention and control can be done.