Are you worried about your Monstera plant's health? Has it started to wilt, turn yellow, or drop its leaves? Don't panic! With the right care and attention, you can revive your dying Monstera plant and bring it back to its former glory. In this article, we'll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to save your Monstera plant and prevent future problems.
Table of Contents
Identifying the Problem
Before we dive into the rescue mission, it's essential to identify the underlying cause of your Monstera plant's decline. Common issues that can cause a Monstera plant to die include:
Overwatering or underwatering, root rot, pests, diseases, lack of humidity, inadequate light, extreme temperatures, and nutrient deficiencies. Take a closer look at your plant and check for any signs of these problems, such as:
Soft, mushy stems, yellowing or droopy leaves, black spots, white powdery residue, or a generally weak and spindly appearance.
Pruning and Cleaning
Pruning is a crucial step in saving your Monstera plant. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems to prevent the spread of disease and encourage healthy growth. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid spreading bacteria and fungi.
Also, gently remove any debris or dead plant matter from the soil to prevent root rot and fungal growth. This will give your plant a fresh start and help it recover faster.
Watering and Humidity
Monsteras love high humidity, but they can be sensitive to overwatering. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water.
Water your Monstera plant thoroughly, making sure the pot drains well to prevent waterlogged soil. Reduce watering during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
To increase humidity, you can place the pot on a tray filled with water and pebbles or use a humidifier nearby. Aim for a humidity level of 50-70%.
Light and Temperature
Monsteras thrive in bright, indirect light, but direct sunlight can cause scorching. Move your plant to a spot with filtered or dappled light, such as an east- or west-facing window.
Keep your Monstera plant away from extreme temperatures, such as radiators, air conditioning vents, or drafty windows. Ideal temperatures range from 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and no lower than 55°F (13°C) at night.
Fertilization and Nutrients
Fertilize your Monstera plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid burning the roots.
Monsteras are heavy feeders and may require additional nutrients, such as magnesium or calcium, to promote healthy growth. Consider using a fertilizer specifically formulated for tropical plants.
Pest Control
Check your plant for signs of pests, such as spider mites, mealybugs, or scale. If you find any, treat your plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the product's instructions.
Isolate your plant from other plants to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
Repotting and Soil
If your Monstera plant is pot-bound or showing signs of nutrient deficiency, consider repotting it into a fresh, well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only one to two sizes larger than the current one to prevent the soil from becoming too wet.
Use a potting mix specifically designed for tropical plants, and add organic matter like compost or peat moss to improve drainage and fertility.
Monitoring and Patience
Saving a dying Monstera plant takes time, patience, and careful monitoring. Keep a close eye on your plant's progress, and adjust your care routine as needed.
Be prepared to make adjustments to your plant's environment, such as moving it to a brighter or more humid location, or adjusting the frequency of watering and fertilization.
With consistent care and attention, your Monstera plant should start to show signs of recovery, such as new growth, stronger stems, and healthier leaves.
Remember, every plant is unique, and it may take some trial and error to find the right combination of care and attention for your Monstera plant. But with persistence and patience, you can bring your plant back to its former glory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common signs of a dying Monstera plant?
A dying Monstera plant may exhibit a range of symptoms, including yellowing or droopy leaves, black or brown spots, soft and mushy stems, a slow growth rate, and a lack of new growth. If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to take action promptly to save your plant.
Why is my Monstera plant dying?
There can be several reasons why your Monstera plant is dying, including overwatering, underwatering, root bound, pests, diseases, lack of humidity, inadequate light, and extreme temperatures. It's crucial to identify the underlying cause to take the appropriate corrective measures.
How often should I water my Monstera plant?
The frequency of watering your Monstera plant depends on the environment and climate. As a general rule, water your Monstera plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.
What is the ideal humidity level for a Monstera plant?
Monstera plants thrive in humid environments, typically between 50-70% relative humidity. You can increase the humidity around your plant by placing it on a tray filled with water and pebbles or using a humidifier.
Can I save a Monstera plant with root rot?
Yes, it's possible to save a Monstera plant with root rot, but it requires immediate attention. Remove the plant from its pot, trim away any rotten roots, and repot it in fresh, well-draining soil. Reduce watering and provide good air circulation to prevent further infection.
How do I prune my Monstera plant?
Pruning your Monstera plant helps maintain its shape, promotes healthy growth, and encourages new foliage. Remove any dead or damaged leaves, cut back long stems, and trim away any aerial roots. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to prevent spreading diseases.
What is the best fertilizer for a Monstera plant?
Feed your Monstera plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid burning the roots. You can also use a fertilizer specifically formulated for tropical plants.
Can I propagate a dying Monstera plant?
Yes, you can propagate a dying Monstera plant by taking stem cuttings or air-layering. This method allows you to save the healthy parts of the plant and create a new, thriving plant. Make sure to use clean tools and provide the right conditions for the new plant to grow.
Why are the leaves on my Monstera plant turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on a Monstera plant can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiency, or too much direct sunlight. Check the soil moisture, adjust your watering schedule, and provide filtered sunlight to prevent further yellowing.
How do I repot a Monstera plant?
Repot your Monstera plant in the spring when it becomes pot-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one, and use a well-draining potting mix. Handle the roots gently, and water the plant thoroughly after repotting.
What pests can infest a Monstera plant?
Common pests that can infest a Monstera plant include spider mites, mealybugs, scale, and whiteflies. Check your plant regularly for any signs of infestation, and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
How do I treat fungal diseases on a Monstera plant?
Treat fungal diseases on a Monstera plant by removing affected leaves or stems, improving air circulation, and reducing watering. Apply a fungicide specifically designed for tropical plants, and repeat the treatment as directed.
Can I grow a Monstera plant outdoors?
Yes, you can grow a Monstera plant outdoors in a shaded area with high humidity. Protect the plant from direct sunlight, strong winds, and frost. Bring the plant indoors during the winter months or in areas with freezing temperatures.
Why is my Monstera plant not producing new leaves?
A lack of new growth on a Monstera plant can be caused by insufficient light, inadequate humidity, or a lack of nutrients. Ensure your plant is receiving bright, indirect light, and provide a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
How do I care for a Monstera plant during the winter months?
During the winter months, reduce watering, and provide cooler temperatures (around 55-65°F) to promote dormancy. Avoid fertilizing, and prune the plant to maintain its shape. Monitor the plant's condition, and adjust your care routine as needed.
Can I divide a Monstera plant?
Yes, you can divide a mature Monstera plant to create new plants. Carefully separate the roots, and replant the separated sections in fresh potting mix. Water thoroughly, and provide the right conditions for the new plants to thrive.
Why are the stems on my Monstera plant soft and mushy?
Soft and mushy stems on a Monstera plant can be caused by overwatering, root rot, or fungal diseases. Check the soil moisture, adjust your watering schedule, and inspect the roots for any signs of rot. Treat fungal diseases promptly, and prune affected stems.
How do I prevent pests from infesting my Monstera plant?
Prevent pests from infesting your Monstera plant by inspecting it regularly, isolating new plants, and maintaining good hygiene. Avoid overwatering, and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a preventative measure.
Can I grow a Monstera plant in a terrarium?
Yes, you can grow a Monstera plant in a terrarium, but it requires careful attention to humidity, temperature, and light. Choose a terrarium with good air circulation, and avoid overwatering. Monitor the plant's condition, and adjust your care routine as needed.
Why are the leaves on my Monstera plant curling?
Curling leaves on a Monstera plant can be caused by underwatering, low humidity, or too much direct sunlight. Check the soil moisture, adjust your watering schedule, and provide filtered sunlight. Increase the humidity around the plant, and prune any damaged leaves.
How do I air-layer a Monstera plant?
Air-layering a Monstera plant involves wounding the stem, applying rooting hormone, and wrapping the area in moss. Keep the moss moist, and roots should develop within 1-2 months. Once roots have developed, cut the stem below the roots, and pot the new plant.
Can I grow a Monstera plant from seed?
Yes, you can grow a Monstera plant from seed, but it's a challenging and time-consuming process. Sow the seeds in a seed starting mix, maintain high humidity, and provide warm temperatures (around 75-85°F). Transplant the seedlings into individual pots once they have 2-3 sets of leaves.
Why is my Monstera plant dropping its leaves?
A Monstera plant may drop its leaves due to changes in temperature, humidity, or light. Check the plant's environment, and adjust your care routine accordingly. Ensure the plant is receiving consistent conditions, and prune any damaged leaves.
How do I provide support for a Monstera plant?
Provide support for a Monstera plant by using a trellis or stake. Gently tie the stems to the support using soft twine or wire, and adjust as the plant grows. This will help maintain the plant's shape and promote healthy growth.
Indoor Plant Care A-Z
Adiantum Fragrans
Aechmea Blue Rain
Aechmea Fasciata
Aeschynanthus Marmoratus
Aeschynanthus Radicans Gesneriad
African Mask
African Spear
African Violet
Air Plant
Alocasia Amazonica
Alocasia Araceae
Aloe
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera Barbadensis
Angel Wings Cactus
Anthurium Andraeanum
Anthurium Crystallinum
Arabian Coffee
Areca Palm
Aroid Palm
Arrowhead Ivy
Arum Lily
Asparagus Densiflorus 'Sprengeri'
Asparagus fern
Asparagus Setaceus
Aspidistra Elatior
Asplenium Antiquum
Asplenium Nidus
Athyrium Filix-Femina
Austrailian Ivy Tree
Austrocephalocereus Dybowskii
Austrocylindropuntia subulata
Azalea Plant
Baby Doll Ti
Baby Rose
Baby Tears
Baby Toes
Baby's Tears
Bamboo Palm
Banana Palm
Banana Plant
Banana Tree
Barbados Aloe
Begoniaceae Maculata
Bengal Fig
Benjamin Tree
Benjamin's Fig
Beringin
Bilbo Cactus
Bird Of Paradise
Bird's Nest Fern
Bird's Tongue Flower
Birds Nest Fern
Blue Pothos
Blue Rain Bromeliad
Blue Rain Plant
Blue Sansevieria
Blue Torch Cactus
Bonsai Ficus
Boston Fern
Boston Fern
Boy Flower
Brighamia insignis
Bromeliad
Buddha's Hand
Bunny Cactus
Burrageara Orchid X Oncidium
Burro's Tail
Butterfly Palm
Cabbage on a Stick
Cabeça-branca
Cactus
Caladium Lindenii
Caladium Magnificum
Calathea
Calathea Marantaceae
Calla Lily
Cambria
Cambria Orchid
Canna Leaved Strelitzia
Cape Jasmine
Cape Primrose
Cast Iron Plant
Cathedral Cactus
Cathedral Plant
Cereus Peruvianus
Ceropegia Woodii
Ceropegia Woodii 'Marlies'
Chain of Hearts
Chain of Pearls
Chamaedorea Elegans
Chinese Ape
Chinese Money Plant
Chinese PLant
Chinese Taro
Chlorophytum Comosum
Christmas Cactus
Christmas Kalanchoe
Cladophora
Cladophora Ball
Climbing Asparagus
Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum
Coffea Rubiaceae Arabica
Coffee Bean
Coffee Plant
Common Purslane
Common Yucca
Cordyline Fruticosa
Corn Plant
Crab Cactus
Crane Flower
Crassula Arborescens
Crassula Hobbit
Crassula Ovata
Croton
Crystal Anthurium
Ctenanthe
Ctenanthe Pilosa Golden Mosaic
Curly Locks Cactus
Curtain Fig
Cycas Revoluta
Cylindrical Snake Plant
Date Palm
Day Flower
Delicious Monster
Devil's Ivy
Devil's Tongue
Devils Backbone
Dieffenbachia Araceae
Donkey's Tail
Dracaena
Dracaena Fragrans
Dracaena Fragrans Golden Coast
Dracaena Fragrans Janet Craig
Dracaena Fragrans Steudneri
Dracaena Magenta
Dracaena Marginata
Dracaena Sanderiana
Dragon Plant
Dragon Scale Alocasia
Dragon Tree
Dumb Cane
Dwarf Arrowhead Vine
Dypsis Lutescens Chrysalidocarpus
Easter Cactus
Elephant Bush
Elephant Ear
Elephant Yucca
Emerald Palm
English Ivy
Entangled Hearts
Epiphyllum Anguliger
Epiphyllum guatemalensis
Epipremnum Aureum
Epipremnum Aureum Neon
Epipremnum Pinnatum
Epipremnum Pinnatum Aureum
Eternity Plant
Euphorbia Enopla
Euphorbia Trigona
Euphorbia Trigona Rubra
Eves Pin Cactus
False African Violet
False Shamrock
Ficus Benghalensis 'Audrey'
Ficus Benjamina
Ficus Elastica
Ficus Elastica 'Ruby'
Ficus Ginseng
Ficus Microcarpa
Fiddle Leaf Fig
First Aid Plant
Fishbone Cactus
Five Holes Plant
Flaming Katy
Flaming Sword
Flamingo Flower
Flamingo Lily
Flamingo Plant
Florist Kalanchoe
Flowering Cactus
Freckle Face
Freckle Plant
French Peanut
Friendship Plant
Garden Ivy
Garden Rose
Gardenia Jasminoides
Giant Bird Of Paradise
Golden Cane
Golden Neon Pothos
Golden Pothos
Goldfish Plant
Guiana Chestnut
Guzmania
Guzmania Bromeliaceae
Happy Leaf Pothos
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hawaiian Ti Plant
Haworthia
Haworthia Rafiki
Heart Leaf
Hedera Helix
Hedera Helix Variagata
Hedera Hibernica
Heptapleurum Actinopyllum
Hobbit Jade
Horrida Plant
Horse's Tail
House Plant Cuttings For Propagation
Hoya Carnosa
Hurricane Plant
Hylotelephium Sieboldii
Hypoestes Phyllostachya
Inch Plant
Irish Ivy
Jade Plant
Jade Plant
Java Fig
Java Tree
Java Willow
Jelly Bean Plant
Jungle Boogie
Jungle Bush
Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
Kalanchoe Delagoensis x Daigremontiana
Kleinia stapeliiformis
Korean Rock Fern
Lace Fern
Laceleaf
Lady Fern
Lake Ball
Lamb's Tail
Lemon Geranium
Leopard Lily
Lipstick Plant
Little Hogweed
Love Plant
Lucky Bamboo
Madagascar Jasmine
Maidenhair Fern
Malabar Chestnut
Malayan Banyan
Maranta Kerchoveana
Maranta Leuconeura
Maranta Marisela
Mason Congo Sansevieria
Measles Plant
Medicinal Aloe
Medicine Plant
Mexican Breadfruit
Milk Barrel Cactus
Miltonia Orchid
Ming Aralia
Mini Philo
Mini Swiss Cheese Vine
Missionary Plant
Mistletoe Cactus
Money Plant
Money Tree
Monkey Jars
Monstera
Monstera Adansonii
Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera Minima
Moss Ball
Moss Rose
Moth Orchid
Mother In Law's Tongue
Mother Of Thousands
Musa
Musa Basjoo Tropicana
N'Joy Pothos
Nemantanthus Gregarius
Nematanthus gregarious
Neon Devil's Ivy
Neon Pothos
Nepenthes Alata
Nephrolepis Exaltata
Never Never Plant
Night Blooming Cactus
Octopus Tree
Odontoglossum Orchid
Oilcloth Flower
Old Man Cactus
Oncidium Orchid
Opuntia Microdaisy Albata
Orchidaceae Phalaenopsis
Oxalis Triangularis
Pachira Aquatica
Pancake Plant
Pansy Orchid
Parasol Plant
Parlor Palm
Parlour Palm
Pass-it-along Plant
Passiflora Caerulea
Passionflower
Patio Rose
Peace Lily
Peace Lily
Peacock Plant
Pearl and Star Plant
Pelargonium Zonal
Peperomia Deppeana × Quadrifolia | Peperomia Tetraphylla
Peperomia Polybotrya
Peperomia Prostrata
Peruvian Apple Cactus
Philodendron
Philodendron 'Monkey Mask'
Philodendron Hederaceum
Philodendron Minima
Philodendron Scandens
Phoenix Canariensis
Pickle Cactus
Pickle Plant
Pilea Depressa
Pilea Mollis
Pilea Peperomoides
Pilocereus Azureus
Pincushion Euphorbia
Pink Jelly Beans
Pink Pork and Beans
Pink Splash
Pink Violet
Pitcher Plant
Polka Dot Begonia
Polka Dot Plant
Polyscias Fruticosa
Polystichum Tsussimense
Portulaca Umbraticolata
Portulacaria Afra Mediopicta
Pot Belly Fig
Pothos
Prayer Plant
Provision Tree
Purple Rain Plant
Purple Shamrock
Purple Wood Sorrel
Rabbit Ears Cactus
Rabbit's Foot
Rabbit's Tracks
Radiator Plant
Raindrop Money Plant
Raindrop Pilea
Rattlesnake Plant
Red Rhipsalis Cactus
Red Rubber Plant
Rhapidophora Tetrasperma
Rhipsalis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Heteroclada
Rhipsalis Horrida
Rhipsalis Occidentalis
Rhododendron Inga
Ric Rac Orchid Cactus
Ric-Rac Cactus
Rosa
Rosary Plant
Rosary Vine
Rough Fern
Rubber Plant
Saba Nut
Sago Palm
Saint Barbara's Sword
Saint Paulia
Saint Paulia
Sansevieria Ehrenbergii
Sansevieria Trifascia
Sansevieria Trifasciata
Sarracenia
Satin Pothos
Savannah Geranium
Schefflera Arboricola
Schlumbergera Bridgesii
Scindapsus Pictum Argyraeus
Scindapsus Pictus
Sedum Morganianum
Sedum Rubrotinctum Variegata
Senecio
Senecio Herrianus
Senecio Rowleyanus
Senecio Stapeliiformis
Shark Fin Plant
Shark's Tooth Philodendron
Silver Dollar Plant
Silver Jade Plant
Silver Pothos
Silver Vase
Small-Leaved Fig
Small-Leaved Rubber Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Tongue
Spanish Moss
Spathiphyllum
Spathiphyllum wallisii
Spear Sansevieria
Spider Plant
Spider Plant
Spiderwort
Spineless Yucca
Split-leaf Philodendron
Spotted Begonia
Star Plant
Stephanotis Floribunda
Stick Yucca
Stranging Fig
Strelitzia Alba
Strelitzia Nicolai
Strelitzia Reginae
Streptocarpus Saxorum
String of Beads
String of Hearts
String of Pearls
String of Tears
String of Turtles
Strings
Surprise Miltoniopsis
Sweetheart Plant
Sweetheart Plant Brazil
Swiss Cheese Plant
Swiss Cheese Vine
Sword Fern
Syngonium Erythrophyllum
Syngonium Nephphytis
Tailflower
Tears Pilea
Thanksgiving Cactus
Ti Leaf
Tiger Tooth Philodendron
Tillandsia
Tillandsia Ionantha
Tradescantia Albiflora
Tradescantia Commelinaceae Multiflora
Trailing Jade
Tropical Laurel
Tropicana Palm
Trout Begonia
True Aloe
Trumpet Lily
Trumpet Pitcher Plant
Trumpet Plant
Turtle Strings
UFO Plant
Umbrella Tree
Urn Plant
Variegated Chain of Hearts
Variegated Entangled Hearts
Variegated Laurel
Variegated Rosary Plant
Variegated Rosary Vine
Variegated Rubber Plant
Variegated String of Hearts
Vriesea splendens
Vuylstekeara Orchid
Wandering Dude
Wandering Jew
Wax Plant
Weeping Fig
Weeping Laurel
Whale Fin Plant
White Bird Of Paradise
White Crane Flower
White Flowered Wild Banana
Wild Banana
Wild Cape Banana
Yellow Palm
Yucca Elephantipes
Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
Zantedeschia
Zanzibar Gem
Zebra Basket Vine
Zebra Cactus
Zebra Lipstick Plant
Zebra Plant
Zebrina Pendula
Zigzag Cactus
Zuzu Plant
ZZ Plant
ZZ Plant
Harley Jennings
Harley Jennings is a renowned indoor plant expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience working with some of the UK's top botany and garden centers. Harley's passion for indoor plants blossomed early in his career, leading him to become a trusted authority in the field. He has spent years nurturing plants, researching the best care practices, and sharing his extensive knowledge with fellow plant enthusiasts.
Harley is the author of the comprehensive guide "The Complete Guide to Indoor Plant Care," where he combines his wealth of experience with a deep love for greenery. This guide provides readers with everything they need to know about indoor plants, from selection and placement to watering, feeding, and troubleshooting common issues.
In addition to his writing, Harley plays a pivotal role in the development of the Botanic Beam app, a revolutionary tool that offers plant lovers a wealth of information in one convenient place. The app simplifies plant care, providing tailored advice, reminders, and expert tips to help users create thriving indoor gardens.
Outside of his professional life, Harley enjoys urban beekeeping, finding a unique connection between nurturing plants and supporting local ecosystems. His relatable, down-to-earth approach makes him a favorite among both novice and experienced indoor gardeners. Whether through his guide or the Botanic Beam app, Harley Jennings continues to inspire and educate, helping people transform their homes into green sanctuaries.