Monstera started browning and having black spots – House Plant Journal

Monstera started browning and having black spots

Plant: Monstera deliciosa

How long have you owned the plant? 6 months to 1 year

Plant Parent

The leaves have started browning and some have black spots.

The overall plant:

 

 

Light Situation:

Plant Parent: the plant only receives indirect light from this window.

How do you determine WHEN to water? I wait for the soil to become just slightly dry.

Describe HOW you water: I use a water globe.

Fertilizer: I have recently started using Baby Bio house plant food.

Soil Situation:

Darryl

Thanks for submitting your photos and care details!

Assessment

Let’s take a closer look at this leaf:

I notice some likely signs of a thrips infestation:

Recommendations

  • Cut off any heavily infested or damaged leaves – thrips eggs are embedded into the plant so cutting off leaves will eliminate future generations
  • Use a lint roller (the tape kind) or masking tape to physically remove any visible insects – I just keep the tape nearby so I can do this removal anytime I pass by the plant and can spare a few seconds
  • Treat remaining plant with insecticidal soap EVERY WEEK – regular treatment is key to breaking the reproductive cycle

More details on thrips treatment (and more photos) here: houseplantjournal.com/thrips/

When an infestation has gone untreated for some time, it will take much longer for it to be eradicated.  Expect a slow, gradual process and be vigilant with inspection.  Thankfully your plant is small enough that it should be easy to thoroughly inspect on a regular basis.  Good luck!

More great resources to level-up your houseplant game:

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