19 Common Problems With Monstera Borsigianas

Monstera Borsigiana, often mistaken for its cousin, the Monstera Deliciosa, is a popular houseplant known for its stunning foliage. However, despite its beauty, this plant can sometimes present its owners with a few challenges. Luckily, with some patience and know-how, these issues can be resolved, ensuring that your Monstera thrives.

In this post, we’ll talk about 19 common problems you might face with your Monstera Borsigiana and offer practical solutions to keep your plant healthy. Whether you’re dealing with droopy leaves, pests, or yellowing foliage, we've got you covered. Let's get started!

1. Yellowing Leaves

Ah, yellow leaves – the bane of many plant lovers. If your Monstera Borsigiana's leaves are turning yellow, it’s usually a sign of overwatering. Monstera plants love moisture but don't want to sit in soggy soil. When the roots are waterlogged, they can't breathe, leading to yellow leaves.

Here's what you can do:

• Check the soil: Use your finger to feel the top inch of soil. If it's still wet, hold off on watering.
• Adjust your watering schedule: Water only when the top inch of soil is dry. This might mean watering once a week or even less, depending on your home's humidity and temperature.
• Ensure proper drainage: Make sure your pot has drainage holes. If not, consider repotting your plant in a container that does.

With a bit of tweaking, you'll have those leaves looking green again in no time!

2. Brown Leaf Tips

Brown tips are often a sign that your Monstera Borsigiana is thirsty or that the air is too dry. This is especially common in homes with central heating, which can dry out the air.

Here’s how to address this issue:

• Increase humidity: Place a humidifier near your plant, or group it with other plants to create a more humid microclimate.
• Check your watering routine: Ensure that you’re not letting the soil dry out completely between waterings.
• Mist the leaves: Regular misting can help increase humidity around the plant.

By giving your Monstera a little extra moisture, those brown tips should start disappearing.

3. Droopy Leaves

Seeing your Monstera's leaves droop can be alarming. But don't worry, it's often a sign of either overwatering or underwatering.

To fix droopy leaves, try the following:

• Check the soil moisture: If the soil is dry, give your Monstera a good drink. If it's wet, let it dry out more between waterings.
• Inspect the roots: If drainage is poor, water might be pooling at the bottom of the pot, causing root rot. Repot with fresh soil if needed.

With a little attention, your Monstera will perk up in no time!

4. Stunted Growth

If your Monstera Borsigiana isn’t growing as fast as you’d like, it might not be getting enough nutrients.

Consider these steps to encourage growth:

• Feed your plant: Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer every month during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Ensure adequate light: Monstera plants thrive in bright, indirect light. If your plant is in a dark spot, consider moving it closer to a window.

With the right care, your Monstera should start to increase in size and produce those beautiful split leaves.

5. Pests: Spider Mites and Mealybugs

Unfortunately, pests like spider mites and mealybugs can find their way onto your Monstera Borsigiana. These little critters suck the sap from the leaves, causing damage.

Here’s how to tackle them:

• Isolate the plant: Move it away from other plants to prevent the pests from spreading.
• Wash the leaves: Use a mild soap and water solution to gently clean the leaves.
• Use neem oil: Spray a neem oil solution on the plant to repel and kill the pests.

Regular checks and prompt action can keep these pests at bay and your Monstera healthy.

6. Leaf Curling

Leaf curling can be a sign of stress for your Monstera Borsigiana, often due to underwatering or low humidity.

To remedy this:

• Check your watering schedule: Ensure the plant is getting enough water without letting the soil become soggy.
• Boost humidity: As with brown tips, increasing the humidity can help. Consider misting the plant or using a pebble tray with water underneath the pot.

With these adjustments, your Monstera should relax and unfurl its leaves once more.

7. Lack of Fenestration (No Holes in Leaves)

If your Monstera isn’t developing those iconic split leaves, it might not be getting enough light or nutrients.

Try the following to encourage fenestration:

• Provide bright, indirect light: While Monstera can tolerate lower light, they thrive in brighter conditions.
• Fertilize regularly: A monthly feeding with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can help the plant produce those beautiful splits.

With patience and care, your Monstera will soon start to show off its unique foliage.

8. Root Rot

Root rot is often a result of overwatering and poor drainage. It's a serious issue that can kill your plant if not addressed quickly.

Here’s how to deal with root rot:

• Remove the plant from its pot: Check the roots and trim any that are mushy or black.
• Repot with fresh soil: Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure your pot has drainage holes.
• Adjust your watering routine: Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.

By addressing root rot promptly, you give your Monstera a fighting chance to recover.

9. Leaf Spotting

Spots on your Monstera's leaves can be caused by fungal infections, often due to overly wet conditions.

To prevent and treat leaf spotting:

• Improve air circulation: Make sure your plant isn’t overcrowded with others, as good airflow helps prevent fungal growth.
• Avoid wet leaves: Water only the soil and avoid getting the leaves wet.
• Use a fungicide: If spots appear, treat the plant with a fungicide spray.

With these steps, you'll help your Monstera stay spot-free and healthy.

10. Leggy Growth

If your Monstera Borsigiana is looking leggy, it might be stretching for more light.

Here’s how to encourage bushier growth:

• Provide more light: Move your plant to a brighter location where it can receive more indirect sunlight.
• Prune your plant: Trim back any overly long stems. This encourages the plant to grow bushier.

With these adjustments, your Monstera should begin to fill out nicely.

11. Sunburn on Leaves

Too much direct sunlight can scorch your Monstera's leaves, leaving them with unsightly burn marks.

To protect your plant from sunburn:

• Move to a shadier spot: Ensure your Monstera is in bright, indirect light rather than direct sunlight.
• Use sheer curtains: If your plant is near a sunny window, consider using sheer curtains to diffuse the light.

By preventing direct sun exposure, your Monstera will stay green and healthy.

12. Fertilizer Burn

Over-fertilizing can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil, causing leaf edges to brown and crisp.

Here’s how to avoid fertilizer burn:

• Use a balanced fertilizer: Opt for a well-balanced houseplant fertilizer and follow the recommended dosage.
• Flush the soil: Occasionally water your plant thoroughly to flush out excess salts from the soil.

By fertilizing with care, your Monstera will receive the nutrients it needs without the risk of burn.

13. Wilting Leaves

Wilting can be a sign of both overwatering and underwatering, making it a tricky problem.

To resolve wilting leaves:

• Check the soil moisture: If it's dry, give your plant a drink. If wet, allow it to dry out more.
• Ensure proper drainage: Make sure your pot has drainage holes and that excess water can escape.

With a little attention, you’ll be able to bring life back to your Monstera's leaves.

14. Overwatering Concerns

Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes with Monstera Borsigiana. It can lead to root rot and other issues.

To avoid overwatering:

• Stick to a schedule: Water only when the top inch of soil is dry.
• Ensure proper drainage: Use pots with drainage holes and a well-draining soil mix.

By watering wisely, you’ll keep your Monstera healthy and happy.

15. Underwatering Woes

On the flip side, underwatering can cause your Monstera to dry out and suffer.

To ensure your plant is getting enough water:

• Check soil regularly: Feel the soil to ensure it's not too dry.
• Increase watering frequency: During hot months, your plant may need more frequent watering.

By keeping an eye on your plant’s water needs, you’ll prevent dehydration-related issues.

16. Incorrect Pot Size

The wrong pot size can hinder your Monstera’s growth. Too small, and the roots become cramped. Too large, and excess soil retains water.

To find the right pot size:

• Choose a snug fit: A pot that’s 1-2 inches larger than the root ball is ideal.
• Repot every few years: As your plant grows, it will need a larger pot to accommodate its roots.

With the right pot, your Monstera will have room to grow without the risk of waterlogging.

17. Soil Issues

Poor soil can impact your Monstera's health, leading to drainage issues or lack of nutrients.

To ensure your plant has the best soil:

• Use a well-draining mix: A combination of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark works well.
• Monitor soil health: Regularly check for compacted soil and refresh it as needed.

By providing the right soil, your Monstera will have a solid foundation for growth.

18. Temperature Fluctuations

Monstera Borsigiana prefers stable temperatures. Sudden changes can stress the plant.

To keep your plant comfortable:

• Maintain a consistent environment: Keep your plant away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners.
• Monitor the room temperature: Aim for a range of 65-75°F (18-24°C).

By maintaining a stable climate, your Monstera will remain healthy and vibrant.

19. Fungal Diseases

Fungal diseases can be a concern, especially in humid conditions. They can cause leaf spots and other problems.

To prevent fungal diseases:

• Provide good airflow: Avoid overcrowding your plants and ensure there’s space for air to circulate.
• Avoid overwatering: Wet conditions can promote fungal growth. Water only when necessary.

With proactive care, you can keep fungal issues at bay and your Monstera healthy.

Final Thoughts

By addressing these common problems, you can ensure that your Monstera Borsigiana stays healthy and thrives in your home.

At Cafe Planta, we're passionate about helping you care for your plants. Whether you need a new plant or some advice, we’re here to help. Feel free to email us or reach out on Instagram. We believe plants bring us closer to nature and each other, and we’re excited to be part of your plant journey!