Many species develop an expected split in their leaves or “fenestration,” but not all do.
What Is Fenestration?
Fenestration is the Latin word for window."
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In botany, it refers to natural holes or splits in the leaves of certain plants.
Age
Monstera develop fenestrated leaves as they mature.
Young monsteraplants naturally have small, solid, heart-shaped leaves that increase in size as the plant grows.
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Your plant may need more time.
Light
The splits in the leaves allow light to pass through to the plant’s lower leaves.
Water
Fenestration allows rain to pass through the leaves instead of accumulating on the leaf surface.
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Monstera plants need consistentbright, indirect lightto grow split leaves as they mature.
If you lack natural light, consider giving your plant a grow light.
Yellowing Leaves
The main reason thatmonstera leaves turn yellowis overwatering.
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These plants should only be watered when the top two to three inches of soil are dry.
Soil should be damp but not soggy.
In winter, allow the plant to dry out a little more between waterings.
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Provide enough water so liquid flows from the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot.
This condition is called wet feet, which causes root rot and can kill the plant.
Cut the leaf stem close to the main stem using sterilized scissors or pruning shears.
Try placing a humidifier near your plant.
Monstera also can’t handle too much direct sunlight, or leaves will burn or scorch,turning brown.
Leaf Droop
Leaves thataren’t getting enough lightwill start to sag.
Other environmental factors can also cause leaf droop, like underwatering, root rot, and low humidity.
Leaf Curling
A leaf cancurl upwards or downwards, each a symptom of something different.
Keep plants away from hot radiators or air conditioning vents to correct this problem.
Also, keep your plant on a regular fertilizer schedule during the growing months.
Keep your plant potted in a well-draining potting mix, and remember towater it regularly.
Fertilize consistently during the spring and summer to maintain a vigorous growth habit.
Also, keep in mind that some plant leaf yellowing is normal.
However, an older plant will put out similar-looking leaves if it’s not getting enough light.
Monsteraplants need plenty of light, and it’s hard to replicate that properly indoors.
If your monsterais still putting out big, fenestrated leaves, then this is okay.
