Problems

Monstera Deliciosa Problems: Causes & Quick Fixes

Quick answer

Monstera Deliciosa is prone to 42 common issues - each link below is a plant-specific fix guide.

Monstera Deliciosa houseplant

Monstera Deliciosa problems

Use the guides below to diagnose and fix common issues on Monstera Deliciosa. Each problem page explains why it happens on this species and what to do first.

Or use our problem diagnosis tool to narrow down symptoms.

Common problems on Monstera Deliciosa

Ants on Plant

Low

Likely cause: Monstera adansonii Monsteras are widely cultivated as ornamental houseplants around the world for their large, decorative foliage and tolerance of indoor conditions.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Monstera Deliciosa, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Crispy Leaves

Medium

Likely cause: Mar 13, 2025 · Monstera deliciosa: The most popular variety, Monstera deliciosa, is known for its large, dark green leaves that can reach 2 feet or more across and are decorated with fenestrations, says …

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Monstera Deliciosa, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Drooping Leaves

Medium

Likely cause: Mar 13, 2025 · Monstera deliciosa: The most popular variety, Monstera deliciosa, is known for its large, dark green leaves that can reach 2 feet or more across and are decorated with fenestrations, says …

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Monstera Deliciosa, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Holes in Leaves

Medium

Likely cause: Mar 13, 2025 · Monstera deliciosa: The most popular variety, Monstera deliciosa, is known for its large, dark green leaves that can reach 2 feet or more across and are decorated with fenestrations, says …

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Monstera Deliciosa, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Leaf Drop

Medium

Likely cause: Feb 9, 2026 · The split-leaf philodendron (Monstera deliciosa) is a stunning climbing evergreen for indoors and out. Here's a care …

Quick fix: Follow extension or botanical guidance for Monstera Deliciosa leaf drop; adjust care before applying broad treatments.

Full fix guide →

Faded Leaves

Medium

Likely cause: Mar 13, 2025 · Monstera deliciosa: The most popular variety, Monstera deliciosa, is known for its large, dark green leaves that can reach 2 feet or more across and are decorated with fenestrations, says …

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Monstera Deliciosa, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Leaf Spot Disease

Medium

Likely cause: Feb 9, 2026 · The split-leaf philodendron (Monstera deliciosa) is a stunning climbing evergreen for indoors and out. Here's a care guide for your full-grown monstera.

Quick fix: Follow extension or botanical guidance for Monstera Deliciosa leaf spot disease; adjust care before applying broad treatments.

Full fix guide →

Leaf Miners

Medium

Likely cause: Feb 9, 2026 · The split-leaf philodendron (Monstera deliciosa) is a stunning climbing evergreen for indoors and out. Here's a care guide for your full-grown monstera.

Quick fix: Follow extension or botanical guidance for Monstera Deliciosa leaf miners; adjust care before applying broad treatments.

Full fix guide →

Not Enough Light

Medium

Likely cause: Dec 23, 2025 · Learn how to grow monstera as a houseplant, including care needs such as amount of light, water, soil type, and the best fertilizer. Plus find out how to propagate and prune a monstera.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Monstera Deliciosa, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Plant Leaning

Medium

Likely cause: Monstera adansonii Monsteras are widely cultivated as ornamental houseplants around the world for their large, decorative foliage and tolerance of indoor conditions.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Monstera Deliciosa, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Red Leaves

Medium

Likely cause: Mar 13, 2025 · Monstera deliciosa: The most popular variety, Monstera deliciosa, is known for its large, dark green leaves that can reach 2 feet or more across and are decorated with fenestrations, says …

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Monstera Deliciosa, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Pot Too Large

Medium

Likely cause: Monstera adansonii Monsteras are widely cultivated as ornamental houseplants around the world for their large, decorative foliage and tolerance of indoor conditions.

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Monstera Deliciosa, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Purple Leaves

Medium

Likely cause: Mar 13, 2025 · Monstera deliciosa: The most popular variety, Monstera deliciosa, is known for its large, dark green leaves that can reach 2 feet or more across and are decorated with fenestrations, says …

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Monstera Deliciosa, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Root Rot

High

Likely cause: Persistently wet soil

Quick fix: Repot in fresh draining mix; correct watering schedule

Full fix guide →

Sticky Leaves

Medium

Likely cause: Mar 13, 2025 · Monstera deliciosa: The most popular variety, Monstera deliciosa, is known for its large, dark green leaves that can reach 2 feet or more across and are decorated with fenestrations, says …

Quick fix: Confirm diagnosis on your Monstera Deliciosa, then address the most likely care or pest factor described in current extension guidance.

Full fix guide →

Aphids

Medium

Likely cause: Aphids on Monstera Deliciosa show up as soft clusters inside unfurling fenestrated leaves, on flower stalks, and in leaf axils near aerial roots-often with sticky honeydew on broad lower blades. First

Quick fix: See plant-specific guide for step-by-step fixes.

Full fix guide →

Fungus Gnats

Medium

Likely cause: Fungus gnats on Monstera Deliciosa mean the potting mix stays wet too long-adults hover near the soil and larvae feed in the damp top layer. First step: stop watering until the top quarter to one-thir

Quick fix: See plant-specific guide for step-by-step fixes.

Full fix guide →

Low Humidity

Medium

Likely cause: Low humidity on Monstera Deliciosa shows as crispy brown leaf margins, slow or stuck new-leaf unfurling, and higher spider mite risk in heated rooms. First step: raise ambient humidity to 50–60% with

Quick fix: See plant-specific guide for step-by-step fixes.

Full fix guide →

Mealybugs

Medium

Likely cause: Mealybugs on Monstera deliciosa show as white cottony clusters in leaf axils, along petioles, at aerial root bases, and in the central crown-often with sticky honeydew on split leaves. First step: iso

Quick fix: See plant-specific guide for step-by-step fixes.

Full fix guide →

Mold on Soil

Medium

Likely cause: White or gray fuzz on Monstera Deliciosa soil is usually harmless saprophytic mold on a damp surface-not a leaf disease. First step: scrape the top 1–2 cm, then let the top 1–2 inches of mix dry befor

Quick fix: See plant-specific guide for step-by-step fixes.

Full fix guide →

Overwatering

Medium

Likely cause: Overwatering on Monstera deliciosa shows as yellowing lower leaves on persistently wet mix, limp foliage despite damp soil, fungus gnats, and soft darkening at the stem base. First step: stop watering

Quick fix: See plant-specific guide for step-by-step fixes.

Full fix guide →

Slow Growth

Medium

Likely cause: Slow growth on Monstera deliciosa is usually low light, winter rest, or a root-bound pot-not hunger. First step: check light exposure and season before changing fertilizer or repotting.

Quick fix: See plant-specific guide for step-by-step fixes.

Full fix guide →

Spider Mites

Medium

Likely cause: Spider mites on Monstera deliciosa cause fine stippling and webbing on large split leaves in dry, warm indoor air. First step: isolate the plant and rinse every leaf underside-including overlapping fe

Quick fix: See plant-specific guide for step-by-step fixes.

Full fix guide →

Underwatering

Medium

Likely cause: Underwatered Monstera deliciosa wilts with a light pot and dry chunky mix-but unlike overwatering, leaves often perk within hours after a thorough soak. First step: probe soil moisture 3–5 cm deep and

Quick fix: See plant-specific guide for step-by-step fixes.

Full fix guide →

Wilting

Medium

Likely cause: Wilting on Monstera Deliciosa means roots are not moving water-probe 2–3 in (5–7 cm) into the mix and lift the pot before you water again. Dry soil calls for a soak; wet soil calls for withholding wat

Quick fix: See plant-specific guide for step-by-step fixes.

Full fix guide →

Curling Leaves

Medium

Likely cause: Common curling leaves pattern on Monstera Deliciosa under indoor care stress.

Quick fix: Inspect roots, watering, light, and pests; adjust one variable and monitor new growth.

Full fix guide →

Brown Leaves

Medium

Likely cause: Common brown leaves pattern on Monstera Deliciosa under indoor care stress.

Quick fix: Inspect roots, watering, light, and pests; adjust one variable and monitor new growth.

Full fix guide →

Black Spots

Medium

Likely cause: Common black spots pattern on Monstera Deliciosa under indoor care stress.

Quick fix: Inspect roots, watering, light, and pests; adjust one variable and monitor new growth.

Full fix guide →

Pale Leaves

Medium

Likely cause: Common pale leaves pattern on Monstera Deliciosa under indoor care stress.

Quick fix: Inspect roots, watering, light, and pests; adjust one variable and monitor new growth.

Full fix guide →

Distorted Leaves

Medium

Likely cause: Common distorted leaves pattern on Monstera Deliciosa under indoor care stress.

Quick fix: Inspect roots, watering, light, and pests; adjust one variable and monitor new growth.

Full fix guide →

Scale Insects

Medium

Likely cause: Common scale insects pattern on Monstera Deliciosa under indoor care stress.

Quick fix: Inspect roots, watering, light, and pests; adjust one variable and monitor new growth.

Full fix guide →

Thrips

Medium

Likely cause: Common thrips pattern on Monstera Deliciosa under indoor care stress.

Quick fix: Inspect roots, watering, light, and pests; adjust one variable and monitor new growth.

Full fix guide →

Whiteflies

Medium

Likely cause: Common whiteflies pattern on Monstera Deliciosa under indoor care stress.

Quick fix: Inspect roots, watering, light, and pests; adjust one variable and monitor new growth.

Full fix guide →

Caterpillars

Medium

Likely cause: Common caterpillars pattern on Monstera Deliciosa under indoor care stress.

Quick fix: Inspect roots, watering, light, and pests; adjust one variable and monitor new growth.

Full fix guide →

Nitrogen Deficiency

Medium

Likely cause: Common nitrogen deficiency pattern on Monstera Deliciosa under indoor care stress.

Quick fix: Inspect roots, watering, light, and pests; adjust one variable and monitor new growth.

Full fix guide →

Iron Deficiency

Medium

Likely cause: Common iron deficiency pattern on Monstera Deliciosa under indoor care stress.

Quick fix: Inspect roots, watering, light, and pests; adjust one variable and monitor new growth.

Full fix guide →

Magnesium Deficiency

Medium

Likely cause: Common magnesium deficiency pattern on Monstera Deliciosa under indoor care stress.

Quick fix: Inspect roots, watering, light, and pests; adjust one variable and monitor new growth.

Full fix guide →

Potassium Deficiency

Medium

Likely cause: Common potassium deficiency pattern on Monstera Deliciosa under indoor care stress.

Quick fix: Inspect roots, watering, light, and pests; adjust one variable and monitor new growth.

Full fix guide →

Calcium Deficiency

Medium

Likely cause: Common calcium deficiency pattern on Monstera Deliciosa under indoor care stress.

Quick fix: Inspect roots, watering, light, and pests; adjust one variable and monitor new growth.

Full fix guide →

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Frequently asked questions

How often should I water Monstera Deliciosa?

Every 7–10 days - allow top 3–5 cm to dry. Water thoroughly. Reduce to every 10–14 days in winter. Avoid chronic overwatering.

What light does Monstera Deliciosa need?

Monstera Deliciosa grows best in bright indirect light, medium indirect light.

Is Monstera Deliciosa toxic to pets?

Monstera Deliciosa is toxic to cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, horses, turtles, and tortoises. Keep out of reach of curious pets and choose pet-safe alternatives for accessible spots.

How do I propagate Monstera Deliciosa?

Propagate Monstera Deliciosa from healthy stem or root divisions during active growth.

What soil is best for Monstera Deliciosa?

Use standard potting mix + 20–25 % perlite + 10–15 % orchid bark. Well-draining chunky aroid mix. pH 5.5–7.0.

When should I repot Monstera Deliciosa?

Repot Monstera Deliciosa when roots circle the pot or growth slows despite good care.

Why does my Monstera Deliciosa have brown tips?

Low humidity or inconsistent watering Quick fix: Increase humidity; water more consistently

How this Monstera Deliciosa problems guide is reviewed?

Editorial policyReview board

Written by · Reviewed by LeafyPixels Review Board · Updated August 30, 2026

This Monstera Deliciosa problems problem guide was researched and written by . Problems symptoms on Monstera Deliciosa, lookalike causes, and step-by-step fixes are cross-checked against extension pest, disease, and care references before publication.

We prioritize sources that hold up under scrutiny:

  • University cooperative extension bulletins and fact sheets (Penn State, Clemson, UMD, NC State, and similar programs)
  • Botanical garden and horticultural society publications
  • Peer-reviewed plant science and veterinary toxicology references where pet safety matters (including ASPCA Animal Poison Control)
  • Established reference works on indoor plant culture

The LeafyPixels editorial team then reviews the draft for clarity, step-by-step usefulness, and fit with real apartment and home conditions-not ideal greenhouse setups. When guidance changes materially, we update the page and note the revision date.

Sources used

  1. 50–70% relative humidity (n.d.) Monstera As A Houseplant. [Online]. Available at: https://extension.psu.edu/monstera-as-a-houseplant (Accessed: 30 August 2026).
  2. Adult females lay eggs (n.d.) Fungus Gnats As Houseplant And Indoor Pests. [Online]. Available at: https://extension.colostate.edu/resource/fungus-gnats-as-houseplant-and-indoor-pests/ (Accessed: 30 August 2026).
  3. Adults stick within 48 hours (n.d.) 7506. [Online]. Available at: https://extension.umn.edu/node/7506 (Accessed: 30 August 2026).
  4. American serpentine leafminer (*L. trifolii*) (n.d.) IN506. [Online]. Available at: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN506 (Accessed: 30 August 2026).
  5. anthocyanin buildup (n.d.) Purple Leaves. [Online]. Available at: https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/purple-leaves (Accessed: 30 August 2026).
  6. Anthocyanins accumulate under temperature stress (n.d.) Why Do Leaves Turn Red Home Garden Series. [Online]. Available at: https://pubs.extension.wsu.edu/product/why-do-leaves-turn-red-home-garden-series/ (Accessed: 30 August 2026).
  7. ants protect honeydew producers from predators (n.d.) Search. [Online]. Available at: https://ipm.ucanr.edu/search/?q=aphids (Accessed: 30 August 2026).
  8. aphids prefer that soft new growth (n.d.) Aphids. [Online]. Available at: https://ipm.ucanr.edu/home-and-landscape/aphids/ (Accessed: 30 August 2026).
  9. Aphids use slender mouthparts to pierce stems and leaves and suck fluids (n.d.) Pn7404. [Online]. Available at: https://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7404.html (Accessed: 30 August 2026).
  10. Ask Extension (n.d.) Saprophytic mold FAQ. [Online]. Available at: https://ask.extension.org/kb/faq.php?id=620408 (Accessed: 30 August 2026).