How To Save A Sunburnt Monstera Adansonii

Oh no, your Monstera Adansonii got a little too much sun and now it has a sunburn! Don't worry, you're not alone. This is a common issue among plant lovers, especially when you're trying to find that perfect spot for your leafy friend. Sunburn on plants might seem alarming, but with a bit of TLC, your Monstera can bounce back beautifully.

In this article, we'll walk through the steps to diagnose and treat sunburn on your Monstera Adansonii. You'll learn how to identify the symptoms, adjust your plant's environment, and even prevent future sunburns. Let's get started on bringing your Monstera back to its lively self!

Spotting the Signs of Sunburn

First things first, how can you tell if your Monstera Adansonii is sunburnt? Just like with humans, the symptoms are usually pretty visible. Sunburn on plants often appears as brown or bleached spots on the leaves. These spots can be crispy and dry to the touch, and in severe cases, entire sections of the leaf may turn brown and die.

It's important to differentiate sunburn from other issues like pests or nutrient deficiencies. Typically, sunburn spots will appear on the leaves that get the most direct sunlight. If the damage is widespread or affects older leaves, it might be another problem. Don't panic! Simply examine your plant closely and consider its recent environment changes to narrow down the cause.

Once you've identified sunburn, it's time to take action. But remember, prevention is key, and understanding how your Monstera ended up sunburnt will help you make better decisions in the future.

Relocating Your Monstera

Now that you've identified the problem, let's talk about relocation. Monstera Adansonii loves bright, indirect light, so finding the right spot in your home is crucial. If your plant was sitting in direct sunlight, it's time to move it to a more suitable location.

Consider placing it near a north or east-facing window. These spots usually offer plenty of light without the harsh direct rays that can cause sunburn. If you don't have these options, you can use sheer curtains or blinds to diffuse the light. This creates a soft glow that's perfect for your Monstera.

Another option is to rotate your plant regularly. This ensures that all sides receive equal light exposure, preventing one side from getting too much sun. Think of it like tanning—too much on one side, and you'll end up with a sunburn!

Trimming Damaged Leaves

Next up, let's talk about pruning those damaged leaves. While a sunburnt leaf might not be the prettiest, it doesn't necessarily mean it's harming your plant. You can choose to trim away the damaged parts if they bother you or if they're extensive.

Grab a pair of clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Start by cutting away the brown or bleached parts of the leaf, being careful not to damage the healthy green areas. If a whole leaf is severely damaged, you might want to remove it entirely. This encourages the plant to focus its energy on healthy growth instead.

Don't worry if you feel like you're removing a lot. Plants are resilient, and with the right care, your Monstera will bounce back. Plus, pruning can encourage new growth, giving your plant a fuller appearance over time.

Adjusting Watering Habits

When your Monstera Adansonii gets sunburnt, it's important to reassess your watering routine. Sunburnt leaves can stress the plant, making it more susceptible to other issues like overwatering or underwatering.

Monstera prefers a consistent watering schedule, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Stick your finger in the soil to check moisture levels, and if it's dry, give your plant a good soak. Just be sure not to let it sit in water, as this can lead to root rot.

On the flip side, underwatering can cause leaves to become crispy and brown, similar to sunburn. So make sure you're striking the right balance! It's always better to underwater slightly than to overwater, as you can always add more if needed.

Improving Humidity Levels

Monstera Adansonii hails from the tropical rainforests, so naturally, it loves a bit of humidity. If your plant is sunburnt, increasing humidity can help it recover by reducing stress and promoting new growth.

There are several ways to boost humidity at home. A simple method is to use a pebble tray. Place a shallow tray filled with pebbles under your plant's pot, then add water until it just covers the pebbles. As the water evaporates, it increases the humidity around your plant.

You can also group your plants together to create a microclimate with higher humidity. Alternatively, using a humidifier in the room is a surefire way to keep those levels up, especially during dry winter months.

Feeding Your Monstera

After addressing the immediate needs of your sunburnt Monstera, it's time to think about feeding. A well-fed plant is a happy plant, and providing the right nutrients can support recovery and new growth.

Consider using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season, typically spring and summer. A diluted solution once a month should suffice. Avoid fertilizing in the fall and winter when your Monstera's growth naturally slows down.

Remember not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to nutrient burn, which presents its own set of challenges. Stick to the recommended dosage on the fertilizer package, and when in doubt, start with a half-dose to see how your plant reacts.

Preventing Future Sunburn

Once your Monstera has recovered, it's all about prevention. To avoid future sunburn, keep an eye on your plant's light exposure and make adjustments as needed.

Be mindful of seasonal changes, as the sun's intensity can vary throughout the year. You might find that a spot that was perfect in the winter becomes too intense in the summer. Regularly check your Monstera for signs of stress, and don't hesitate to move it if necessary.

Another tip is to clean your plant's leaves regularly. Dust can block light absorption, affecting your plant's ability to photosynthesize. A gentle wipe with a damp cloth every few weeks will keep those leaves clean and healthy.

Final Thoughts

Reviving a sunburnt Monstera Adansonii involves understanding the signs, making environmental adjustments, and providing the care it needs to thrive again. With patience and the right steps, your plant will recover and continue to bring joy to your space.

At Cafe Planta, we believe that plants have the power to bring people together and inspire us to connect with nature and each other. If you have any questions about plant care or need more tips, feel free to email us or send a message on Instagram. Whether you're an experienced plant parent or just starting your journey, we're here to help you create a thriving plant collection in your home.