Monstera Deliciosa Leaf problem
Hmons
9 years ago
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Hmons
9 years agoRelated Discussions
Monstera deliciosa or split leaf philo - what do I have here?
Comments (39)I bought a split leaf 2 years ago at a yard sale for $2. When I got it, there was only 2 small leaves. Since then, I would say it is about 3 1/2 - 4 ft tall and about 7-8 ft in diameter. There are so many leaves:) I love it, but I need to prune it back some because after I transplanted it into a new pot, the leaves are pointing in different directions and some of them are upside down now. I have tried to prop them up to face the right way, but I am afraid of breaking the thin stock. For some reason, their branches are thicker than the base. So, how would I go about pruning the leaves back? Do I just cut them where I would want it, or is there a certain spot on the branch, base, or what I call (conjunction-a cluster of branches from one place)? I won't do anything to it until I know it won't hurt it. This thing likes to grow fast!!! I can almost guarantee that I won't be able to find this place again on the web, so if you know the answer to my question, please email me at cpenena@hotmail.com. Very much appreciated....See MoreGrowing Monstera deliciosa Liebm / Split Leaf Philodendron
Comments (6)Hi Sheri! If the plant is truly Monstera deliciosa it isn't a Philodendron at all. The genus Monstera contains 33 to 36 or so species depending on the scientific source quoted. There are many scientific names in the genus but almost all have been sunk into synonymy with a much smaller number of accepted species names. It sounds as if you've done your homework already since you know the name of the botanist that originally published the plant or at least his abbreviated name so I'd say you actually have that species. Monstera deliciosa has a number of natural variations and some produce leaves that remain very small for the entire life of the plant. I was recently given a cutting from a 20 year old plant the the largest leaves weren't 12 inches wide. Philodendron is a very large genus with something close to 1000 species divided into three major sections but that is a totally different discussion. The same common name is used for Philodendron bipinnatifidum (P selloum) since it has multi-lobed leaf margins (edges). Even if the plant were P. bipinnatifidum the growth method is basically the same. It sounds as if your growing conditions are good for Monstera deliciosa since it is very tolerant. I doubt you can over water it since it naturally grows along steam banks in southern Mexico and most of Central America. However, the soil mixture may not be good for this species. Monstera require a very fast draining soil so if you have it in Mississippi clay the roots may not be able to freely grow and gather water and nourishment. The other possible cause would be either lack of or over fertilization. Either is just as bad. Most commercial growers prefer something like Osmocote 30-30-30 for large aroids. If the soil is good I'd try the fertilizer first. If the soil has not been amended I would suggest you mix a large quantity of moisture control potting soil with about 20% peat moss and add a BUNCH of cypress mulch. If you can find a bag of cheap orchid bark with charcoal add that as well along with any compost you can find. I know it may be a big job but if you dig the plant up and replant it in this mix it should begin to thrive. My big question is the weather in your area. Although Monstera deliciosa will likely survive, it will be temporarily stunted by extreme cold. The species is not know to do great much north of Orlando so keep that in mind. You can shield it from the cold during any really cold nights but try to keep it from long exposure. You should know this species craves to climb. I have several large specimens in my own atrium and one is now 10 feet up the nearest tree. I've seen them in the tropics and in South Florida at least 50 feet into the canopy and have read of them climbing much higher. Other than that, without photos to examine I'm not sure what other advice to offer....See MoreMonstera leaf problem
Comments (0)Hi all, I've had my monstera for about 3 weeks - it was a gift from a friend. Since I've had it the leaves are turning yellow / black and it's spreading! It starts at the edges and in the middle of leaves. I thought it must be a water problem so I'm just about to repot into a better draining soil now and thought the roots might be rotting but they look healthy to me. I've cut off the worst leaves but it's happening very fast. Please advise!...See MoreNew monstera deliciosa parent. Help!
Comments (2)Is that the only leaf that is yellowing? Probably the oldest leaf? Do not worry about one leaf. Are the rest of the leaves less perky than before. Roots grow differently in soil than in water. I prefer to root directly in soil and mixing soil slowly in the water doesn't help the transfer. The plant actually has to grow new roots or at least new root tips into the soil mixture to take up the moisture from it (the soil). That takes a little adjusting and the plant it a little stressed during the process but should be fine. I hope you are using a nice open mix.....one that stays moist but has a lot of air space (e.g. extra perlite and/or bark (you can add orchid mix) in the soil). keep lightly moist. If the plant get real limp you can get a large clear bag and put it around the plant to raise humidity for a few days while new roots get established.....than gradually open the bag over several days. The lighting look probably good..........very bright but no direct southern sun mid-day (mornign or late day sun ok). Never fertilize a newly transplanted or potted plant. Later when it begins growing new leaves you can start some light fertilization but not now. Soil should never be soggy. It should be slightly moist (but have a lot of air space in it, as I mentioned above). Later when it is rooted in you can let it dry between watering....See MoreTiffany, purpleinopp Z8b Opp, AL
9 years agoHmons
9 years agoTiffany, purpleinopp Z8b Opp, AL
9 years agoHmons
9 years agoTiffany, purpleinopp Z8b Opp, AL
9 years agofresh06
8 years agonatalie_france90
5 years agomasia_z
5 years agoMichelle Parkos
5 years agoTara Barker
3 years agolast modified: 3 years ago
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