Root Rot

Overwatering

To address root rot, first, remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. Cut away any black, mushy roots with sterilized scissors, leaving only healthy, white roots. Allow the roots to air dry before repotting in fresh, well-draining soil. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes. Going forward, water your monstera only when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry to the touch, and ensure it's in a pot that allows excess water to drain away freely to prevent future occurrences.

Drooping Leaves

Underwatering

To address drooping leaves caused by underwatering, it's crucial to establish a consistent watering schedule. Monstera plants prefer soil that is slightly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. If the plant is severely dehydrated, immerse the pot in a water bath for about 10 minutes to rehydrate the soil evenly. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage to prevent root rot. Adjust your watering frequency based on seasonal changes in light and temperature.

Spider Mite Infestation

Spider mites are tiny pests that thrive in warm, dry conditions. They feed on the sap of monstera leaves, causing yellow or brown spots and fine webbing on the plant.

To combat spider mites, first isolate the affected plant to prevent spread. Increase humidity around your monstera, as spider mites prefer dry environments. Wash the plant gently with water to remove mites and their webs. For severe infestations, use a neem oil solution or insecticidal soap, applying it thoroughly to the leaves, especially the undersides, every 7-10 days until the mites are eradicated. Regularly check the plant and maintain proper care to prevent re-infestation.

Leaf Yellowing

Nutrient Deficiency

Monstera plants can develop yellow leaves if they are not receiving the right balance of nutrients, particularly nitrogen. To address this, ensure you're using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer formulated for houseplants. Apply this every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer), and reduce to every 8 weeks in fall and winter. Additionally, repotting the plant into fresh soil every couple of years can help replenish nutrient levels and support healthy growth.