Monstera looking leggy and sad
Plant: Monstera deliciosa
How long have you had the plant? 6 months to 1 year
Concerns:
A few months ago the leaves started having issues – turning yellow, browning on the edges, tearing, and folding in a little. The leaves seem weaker and new leaves are browning or yellowing and not growing as large. Overall the plant seems more leggy and spread out.
Light Situation:
How do you determine WHEN to water: I can never quite gauge how frequently to water. I usually stick my finger in the soil and if it’s dry that is when I water.
Describe HOW you water: Pour a small amount of water onto the soil.
What fertilizer do you use? I started recently.
When was the last time you repotted? I have not repotted it yet.
Soil Situation:
Darryl
Plant Parent
Darryl
Thanks! I see three issues here.
1) You have a pretty severe thrips infestation – all those little yellowish things are thrips larvae. You need to treat it consistently if you want to get the infestation under control – more details HERE.
2) Pouring small amounts of water into the soil leaves dry pockets where roots can die off and mineral accumulation in the soil speeds up the development of browned tips. WHEN to water: when the soil reaches roughly halfway dry. HOW to water: fully soak the entire volume of soil and allow the excess water to drain away (hopefully you have drainage holes).
3) The vines of your plant appear to have been cut, which means a new growth point needs to form before you’ll get any new leaves. This can take several months to initiate. Water thoroughly when it’s time to water and move the plant as close to your windows as possible – the plant can tolerate 2 or 3 hours of direct sun through a window so don’t be afraid to move it close!
Deal with the thrips and be patient because your plant needs to produce new growth points. Good luck!
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