Monstera Leaves Turning Yellow? Causes plus Fixes
Monstera leaves turning yellow usually come down to water, light or an old leaf reaching the end of its life. Virginia Cooperative Extension lists yellowing on new plus old foliage among signs of overwatering. Check the soil first, then the light, before you change anything else.
The short answer
Yellow monstera leaves most often point to watering. Virginia Cooperative Extension lists yellowing on new plus old foliage as a sign of overwatering. NC State Extension advises watering thoroughly, then letting the top quarter to one third of the soil dry. University of Missouri Extension notes low light also yellows lower leaves.
Is overwatering making the leaves yellow?
Virginia Cooperative Extension lists yellowing, wilting plus soft stems as signs of overwatering. University of Illinois Extension advises checking soil with a finger to two inches before watering.
| Sign | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow soft leaves in wet soil | Overwatering | Let the top third dry |
| Yellow lower leaves plus pale growth | Low light | Move to brighter indirect light |
| One old lower leaf yellows | Normal aging | Remove it at the stem |
| Brown brittle edges | Underwatering | Water thoroughly |
Source: Virginia Cooperative Extension plus University of Missouri Extension.
Could low light cause yellow leaves?
Yes. University of Missouri Extension lists lower leaves that are yellow plus dropping among signs of too little light, along with pale stems plus long gaps between leaves. NC State Extension notes monstera prefers moderate brightness but not direct sun. Set the plant nearer a bright window.
When is a yellow leaf just old age?
A single lower leaf that yellows while new leaves look fine is often normal aging. Virginia Cooperative Extension notes pruning off dead foliage can stimulate new growth. When several leaves or new ones yellow, check watering plus light instead.
How to: step by step
- Feel the soil two inches down.
- Water only if the top third is dry.
- Empty the saucer after watering.
- Move the plant to bright indirect light.
- Snip fully yellow leaves at the stem.
- Track new leaves for two to three weeks.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves in soggy soil: overwatering. Let it dry, then check drainage.
Yellow lower leaves in a dim corner: low light. Move it closer to a window.
Yellow with brown crisp edges: underwatering. Water thoroughly.
For more on watering see overwatering cannabis prevention plus diagnosis, checking soil moisture by feel plus bottom watering cannabis. Kind Seed Co also stocks cannabis seeds.
Sources
- Monstera deliciosa, NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
- Properly watering container houseplants (SPES-804), Virginia Cooperative Extension
- Lighting indoor houseplants (G6515), University of Missouri Extension
- Houseplants: watering, University of Illinois Extension
FAQ
How often should I water a monstera?
NC State Extension advises watering thoroughly, then letting the top quarter to one third of the soil dry. University of Illinois Extension notes a set schedule usually does not work plus advises feeling the soil to two inches. Water when it feels dry at that depth.
Should I cut off yellow monstera leaves?
Yes, once a leaf has fully yellowed it will not turn green again. Virginia Cooperative Extension notes pruning off dead foliage can stimulate new growth. Cut the leaf stem near the main stem with clean pruners. Then look at water plus light so the next leaf stays green.
Can a pot without drainage cause yellow leaves?
Yes. Virginia Cooperative Extension notes containers without drainage holes create waterlogged conditions that can lead to root rot. University of Illinois Extension advises emptying the saucer plus not letting the pot sit in water. Move the plant to a pot with holes.
Does winter change how much water monstera needs?
Yes. Virginia Cooperative Extension notes winter is when growth is slowest plus advises monitoring plants closely in autumn plus winter to avoid overwatering. Less light means less water use. Feel the soil before each watering plus stretch the time between drinks.
Does humidity affect monstera leaves?
NC State Extension notes monstera prefers high humidity plus advises a humidifier or a tray of wet pebbles in dry rooms. Virginia Cooperative Extension notes plants in humid rooms need water less often, since the soil dries slowly. Adjust watering if you add humidity.
