Houseplant clinic: why is my monstera turning yellow?
The leaves on my Swiss cheese plant are losing their dark green colour.
Diagnosis
Yellowing leaves on a monstera (Monstera deliciosa or Swiss cheese plant) can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, low light or nutrient imbalances. Overwatering is the usual culprit – if the soil stays too wet, the roots may suffocate or develop rot, leading to yellow leaves. But underwatering can also stress the plant and cause leaf yellowing. Inadequate light or an abrupt change in lighting conditions may also contribute.
Prescription
Start by checking the soil. If it's wet and waterlogged, hold off on watering and let the soil dry out slightly. If the roots are rotting, you'll need to repot the plant, trimming away any mushy roots and using fresh, well-draining soil. If the soil is too dry, thoroughly water your plant, ensuring excess water drains. Ensure it receives bright, indirect light, and adjust its position if it's in a low-light spot.
Prevention
Water your monstera only when the top two inches of soil feel dry. Don't let it sit in waterlogged soil or let the soil completely dry out. Place the plant in a spot with consistent light, rotate it occasionally for even growth, and feed it with a balanced fertiliser during the growing season.
Got a plant dilemma? Email saturday@theguardian.com with 'Houseplant clinic' in the subject line
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