Curled leaves on Monstera: causes, solutions, and expert care

Have you noticed that your Monstera has rolled leaves and don't know what to do? Don't worry, this phenomenon is a clear sign that something isn't right with your plant. By following the advice in this article, you'll be able to identify the exact cause, learn how to remedy it, and prevent it from happening again. Below, we offer a very detailed guide that combines the utmost expert knowledge and best practices to ensure the health of your plant. Monstera delicious o Adam's rib.

The leaves: the thermometer of Monstera's well-being

The leaves They are a plant's main communication organ. Observing their appearance is the best way to anticipate problems, as they reflect the plant's overall condition long before it's too late. In Monstera, some large, green, shiny leaves with well-marked fenestrations They indicate vigor and health.

When something isn't right, the Monstera leaves begin to change. Some obvious signs are:

• Chlorosis: the leaves change from green to yellow.
• Appearance of brown or black spots.
• Dry edges or burned.
• Deformations and lack of development in the leaves.
• Curling or curling of the leaves about themselves.
• Loss of shine and rough texture.
• Premature green leaf fall.

These symptoms may be due to very different causes: from improper sun exposure, irrigation problems, nutrient deficiencies or excesses, low humidity, to the presence of diseases or pests. If you'd like to learn more about how to detect other signs of stress in your plants, we recommend reading this article. Curled leaves on plants: causes and solutions.

Monstera deliciosa: origin, characteristics and basic needs

La Monstera delicious, Also known as Adam's rib, is a tropical plant native to the jungles of southern Mexico and other parts of Central America. It is an epiphytic species that climbs trees and obtains nutrients primarily from the air and organic matter accumulated around it.

Its main attraction is its lush leaves, which are whole when young, and as the plant matures, they divide and perforate. Monsteras can live both outdoors in shade and indoors, provided they have the right light and humidity conditions.

To keep a Monstera healthy, you need to provide it with:

• Intense indirect light, avoiding direct sun.
• Warm temperatures and without sudden changes.
• High humidity (ideally greater than 50%).
• Substrate rich in organic matter and with good drainage.

Why do Monstera leaves appear curled?

The curling of the leaves on a Monstera is always a stress response, although the cause can vary considerably. It's essential to observe other accompanying symptoms to identify the specific problem. Here's what you should check for:

Water stress: balancing irrigation

The Monstera is very sensitive to both lack of irrigation as the excess of waterWhen the plant doesn't get enough water, the leaves curl inward to reduce moisture loss through transpiration. Conversely, overwatering can cause waterlogging of the substrate and root suffocation, which also leads to leaves curling and becoming soft or wrinkled. For more details on how to adjust watering, see solutions for problems on leaves.

To avoid these problems:

• Water only when the top few inches of the substrate are dry to the touch.
• Use a substrate with good drainage and a pot with holes.
• Prevent water from accumulating in the saucer under the pot.

Adverse environmental conditions: humidity and temperature

La Monstera It is a tropical plant and therefore requires a high ambient humidityDry air, typical in homes with heating or air conditioning, causes leaves to curl, especially at the tips and edges.

Similarly, sudden changes in temperature or exposure to cold or hot drafts also stress the plant. Remember that Monstera suffers with temperatures below 10°C and above 30°C, as well as with currents. To increase humidity, check how to improve environmental conditions.

How to increase ambient humidity?

• Spraying water (preferably distilled) on the leaves.
• Using humidifiers or placing the plant on a saucer with pebbles and water (without submerging the base of the pot).
• Grouping plants to create a humid microclimate.
• Placing the Monstera in naturally humid areas of the home, such as the bathroom (if it has enough light).

Nutritional factors: deficiencies and excesses

Both a lack and excess of nutrients affect the health of the Monstera. magnesium and potassium deficiency can cause curling, yellowing, and failure to thrive, while excess fertilizer leads to salt buildup and root damage. To avoid this, we recommend exploring specific leaf care.

• Choose a balanced fertilizer specifically for indoor or green plants.
• Fertilize only during the growing season (spring and summer), according to the recommended dose.
• If you think you have over-fertilized, water deeply to flush out salts or partially change the substrate.

Pests and diseases: invisible enemies

The attack of pests such as aphids, thrips or mites can suck the sap, causing curling, deformation and staining. mushrooms can also be responsible, especially if there is waterlogging or poor ventilation. For information on how to act, you can consult How to know if my plant is growing well.

• Check the underside and stems for small insects.
• Remove minor pests manually or clean with potassium soap.
• In case of fungus, use an organic fungicide and improve ventilation and drainage.

Root damage and transplanting

El root damageWhether due to rot, poor substrate condition, or handling during transplanting, this can be reflected in leaf curl. If the Monstera has been recently transplanted, it may be experiencing temporary stress, but if the problem persists, check that the roots are not black or mushy.

Other common causes

There are less worrying situations that can also cause some leaves to curl:

• Natural aging of old leaves before falling.
• Inadequate lightBoth extreme deficiency and direct sun exposure can cause curling and burning.
• Excess heat, especially next to radiators or very sunny windows.

How to prevent and fix curled leaves on Monstera

1. Evaluate the origin of the problem

Start by ruling out the most common causes by examining the plant from top to bottom. If the Monstera hasn't been repotted recently and the problem affects new or younger leaves, it's likely due to an environmental, nutritional, or health factor.

• Pests and fungiInspect leaves, stems, and roots. Act quickly with appropriate products if you detect infection.
• Improper irrigation: Check the substrate moisture and adjust the watering frequency.
• Dry environment or temperature changes: Relocate the plant away from drafts or radiators and increase the ambient humidity.
• Nutrients: Fertilize only if the case requires it and never exceed the dose.

2. Proceed according to the cause

If you detect lack of irrigation, water thoroughly until the water drains completely and establish a regular schedule, ensuring that the substrate dries between waterings. case of overwateringSuspend watering until the soil is completely dry and, if necessary, partially change the substrate, checking the roots for rot. Remember: Monstera tolerates a brief drought much better than prolonged waterlogging.

For dry environments, use misters, humidifiers, or group plants together. You can also place your Monstera near the bathroom if it has good natural light, as it loves high humidity. Avoid placing the plant near drafts or in areas with direct sunlight, as this can dry out the environment and damage the leaves.

In case of nutrient deficiency, use liquid or solid fertilizer rich in potassium and magnesium, always adjusting the dose to the size of the plant and the time of year (spring-summer). If the problem is a excess nutrients, water thoroughly to clean the substrate or consider partial transplant.

If there pests For mild cases, use potassium soap or neem oil. For fungal infections, improve drainage and use an organic fungicide.

Additional care to keep your Monstera looking perfect

• Use an optimal substrate. Mix universal substrate with worm castings and perlite to ensure aeration and nutrients.
• Clean the leaves periodically with a damp cloth to facilitate breathability and prevent dust.
• Give support so that it can climb and form more spectacular leaves.
• Watch out for the appearance of stains, yellowing or small holes, since they are signs of stress that can evolve into curling.
• change location the plant if you suspect that the environment is not suitable, always preferring well-lit but protected areas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Monstera Leaf Curls

• Is leaf curl reversible? If action is taken early and the cause is environmental, the younger leaves usually recover. Irreversibly damaged leaves may not uncurl, but the new ones will grow healthy.
• Can a Monstera be grown outside? Yes, as long as it is in shade or semi-shade and protected from frost and cold drafts.
• Is it better to water from above or below? Both techniques are valid, as long as excess water drains and no water accumulates in the saucer. It's essential to check the substrate's moisture content before watering.
• What do I do if the roots are rotten? Remove damaged parts, transplant into dry substrate and improve drainage.

The key to having a Monstera always spectacular It involves constant observation and swift action when faced with any sign of stress. Curled leaves don't necessarily mean the loss of the plant, but rather a warning that, if properly addressed, will allow us to enjoy its green, spectacular beauty for many years.