Why your monstera leaves are turning yellow
Good news first — yellow leaves on a monstera are almost always fixable, and you caught it. The usual culprit is overwatering or too little light. Let's walk through what your plant's telling you and how to set it right.
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Why are my monstera leaves turning yellow?
Most often it's overwatering or too little light. Plants yellow from the bottom up when they're stressed — usually water, light, or nutrients. Check the soil first: if it's soggy, you've been too generous with the watering can.
Monsteras yellow from wet feet or from sitting too dark. Check the soil moisture first, then the light — a monstera in a dim corner will slowly yellow and stop splitting.
Should I cut the yellow leaves off my monstera?
Yes — once a leaf is fully yellow it's not coming back, and it's draining energy your plant could spend on new growth. Snip it clean at the base with sharp scissors. A leaf that's only partly yellow can hang on a while longer while you fix the underlying issue.
How do I fix yellow leaves on my monstera?
Start with the soil. Let the top inch or two dry before watering again, and make sure your pot actually drains. Then check light — a monstera sitting too dark will slowly yellow. Fix one thing at a time so you know what worked.
Why are my monstera leaves turning yellow after repotting?
Some transplant shock is normal — a leaf or two may yellow while the roots settle. Keep light bright and watering moderate, and watch for fresh green growth as the sign it's recovered.
Why are my monstera leaves turning yellow in winter?
In winter the plant rests and needs less water; if you kept the summer schedule, the soil stayed too wet and the lower leaves yellowed. Cut back on water and let it dry out more between drinks.
Should I cut yellow leaves off my monstera?
Yes, once they're mostly yellow. They won't recover and the plant looks better without them. Cut clean at the base of the stem.
Not sure? Ask Thumbs about your Monstera leaves turning yellow →
Thumbs talks you through it, one question at a time. Free during early access.