Monstera Getting Black Spots on Leaves - 7 Reasons

Atik Faysal
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Monstera Getting Black Spots on Leaves

Monstera getting black spots on leaves often indicates overwatering, fungal infections, or pests. Ensure proper drainage, avoid waterlogged soil, and check for pests or diseases.

Monstera plants are popular indoor plants. Their big leaves make them stand out. But sometimes, you may see black spots on the leaves.

Black spots on Monstera leaves can be scary. They can make your plant look unhealthy. But don't worry!

Let's find out why this happens and how to fix it.

7 Reasons Why Your Monstera Getting Black Spots on Leaves


There are many reasons why black spots appear. Here are the most common ones:

  • Overwatering
  • Underwatering
  • Fungal Infections
  • Bacterial Infections
  • Insects
  • Sunburn
  • Low Humidity
  • Cold Temperatures

1. Overwatering

Overwatering is a common problem. Too much water can damage the roots, causing black spots on the leaves. Plants need the right amount of water to stay healthy. 

Before you water, always check the soil. If the soil feels wet, don’t add more water. Wait a few days and check again. Using well-draining soil helps water flow through, so the roots don’t stay too wet. This prevents root rot and keeps the plant healthy. 

Remember, it’s better to underwater slightly than to give too much. Following these steps will help your plants grow strong and avoid problems.

2. Underwatering

Underwatering can cause black spots on your Monstera's leaves. When the plant doesn’t get enough water, it becomes stressed. This stress can show as black spots. 

To keep your plant healthy, water it when the top inch of soil feels dry. Stick your finger into the soil to check. If it’s dry, it's time to water. Make sure the water reaches the roots, not just the surface. You can do this by watering slowly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. 

Consistent watering helps prevent black spots and keeps your Monstera happy. Avoid letting the soil stay too dry for long periods, as this can harm the plant.

3. Fungal Infections

Fungi thrive in wet conditions. Overwatering and lack of airflow can cause fungal infections in plants. These infections often show up as black spots on the leaves. 

To protect your plant, remove any infected leaves as soon as you notice them. Improving air circulation around the plant is also important. You can do this by spacing plants out or using a small fan. 

Avoid watering too much, especially if the soil stays wet for a long time. If the fungal infection is severe, you may need to use a fungicide to treat the plant. 

Follow the instructions carefully when applying it to avoid harming your plant. Prevention and quick action can help keep your plants healthy and fungus-free.

4. Bacterial Infections

Bacteria can cause black spots on plants. These spots spread fast and can damage the plant. If you notice black spots, remove the infected leaves immediately. This helps stop the infection from spreading to other parts of the plant. It's important to keep the plant clean and healthy. 

Avoid splashing water on the leaves when watering. Water splashes can spread bacteria, making the infection worse. Always water at the base of the plant. Good air circulation around the plant can also help prevent bacterial infections. 

Regularly check your plant for signs of disease. Quick action can save the plant from more damage. Taking care of your plant’s environment can help prevent problems in the future.

5. Insects

Insects like spider mites and thrips can damage your Monstera plant. These pests suck the sap from the leaves, causing black spots to form. Over time, this weakens the plant and makes it look unhealthy. 

To protect your Monstera, check the leaves regularly for any signs of bugs. Look closely at both the top and bottom of the leaves. 

If you spot any pests, you can treat your plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Both are effective in getting rid of these insects. Spray the leaves and stems, making sure to cover all parts of the plant. 

Repeat the treatment as needed until the pests are gone. Keeping a close eye on your Monstera can help keep it healthy and pest-free.

6. Sunburn

Monstera plants need bright, indirect light to grow well. If they are placed in direct sunlight, their leaves can get sunburned. This will cause black or brown spots to form on the leaves. Too much direct light can damage the plant.

To keep your Monstera healthy, move it to a place where it gets lots of light, but not directly from the sun. A spot near a window with curtains or some shade is perfect. This will let the plant get enough light to grow without getting sunburned.

If you see black spots on the leaves, it means the plant is getting too much sunlight. Adjust its position right away. With the right light, your Monstera will thrive!

7. Low Humidity

Monstera plants thrive in high humidity. When the air is too dry, the leaves can develop black spots. This is a sign that the plant isn't getting enough moisture.

To fix this, you can increase the humidity around your Monstera. One way to do this is by using a humidifier. This device adds moisture to the air, which helps the plant.

Another option is to place a tray of water near your plant. As the water evaporates, it will add moisture to the air around your Monstera. Both methods will help keep your plant healthy and happy.

8. Cold Temperatures

Cold temperatures can hurt your Monstera plant. If it gets too cold, you might see black spots on the leaves. This happens because the plant is stressed.

To keep your Monstera happy, place it in a warm area. It should not be too close to cold windows or doors. Cold drafts can make the plant unhappy.

Make sure the room where your Monstera lives stays warm. Avoid letting the temperature drop too much. Your plant will thrive better in a stable, warm environment.

How to Fix Black Spots on Monstera Leaves


Black spots on Monstera leaves can be a sign that something is wrong with your plant. Monstera plants are usually hardy, but they do need proper care to thrive. Fixing black spots on monstera leaves involves addressing common issues like watering, humidity, pests, or fungal infections.

First, check if you are overwatering your Monstera. Too much water can cause root rot, leading to black spots. Let the soil dry out between waterings, and make sure the pot has drainage holes.

Next, look at humidity levels. Monsteras love humidity, so if the air is too dry, the leaves can get damaged. Use a humidifier or mist the leaves regularly to increase moisture.

Pests like spider mites or scale insects can also cause black spots. Inspect the leaves closely and wipe them down with a damp cloth. You can also use insecticidal soap if needed.

Lastly, if the spots are spreading, it might be a fungal infection. Remove the affected leaves and apply a fungicide to prevent it from getting worse.

With the right care, your Monstera should recover, and new healthy leaves will grow in place of the damaged ones.

How to Prevent Black Spots on Monstera Leaves

How to Prevent Black Spots on Monstera Leaves


Prevention is the best cure. Follow these tips to keep your Monstera healthy:

  1. Proper Watering: Water your Monstera when the top inch of soil is dry. Make sure the water reaches the roots. Avoid overwatering.
  2. Check For Pests: Inspect your plant regularly. Look for signs of pests. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of them.
  3. Bright, Indirect Light: Place your Monstera in a spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent sunburn.
  4. Maintain Humidity: Increase humidity around your plant. Use a humidifier or place a tray of water near the plant.
  5. Warm Spot: Keep your Monstera in a warm spot. Avoid placing it near drafts or cold windows.
  6. Remove Infected Leaves: Remove infected leaves promptly. This prevents the spread of infections.
  7. Well-draining Soil: Use well-draining soil for your Monstera. This prevents water from sitting in the pot.

Anyway, if you want to fix black spots on monstera leaves

Common Query


1. What Causes Black Spots On Monstera Leaves?

Black spots on Monstera leaves are often caused by overwatering or fungal infections.

2. How To Treat Black Spots On Monstera Leaves?

Ensure proper drainage, reduce watering, and apply a fungicide to treat black spots on Monstera leaves.

3. Can Pests Cause Black Spots On Monstera?

Yes, pests like spider mites can cause black spots on Monstera leaves by damaging the plant tissue.

4. Does Humidity Affect Monstera Leaf Spots?

High humidity can create a breeding ground for fungi, leading to black spots on Monstera leaves.



Final Words


Black spots on Monstera leaves can be alarming. But with proper care, you can keep your plant healthy.

Monstera getting black spots on leaves can be due to overwatering, poor drainage, fungal infections, or inadequate humidity and light conditions.

Remember to water properly, check for pests, and provide the right light. Maintain high humidity and keep the plant in a warm spot.

By following these tips, your Monstera will thrive. Say goodbye to black spots and hello to a healthy plant!

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