Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can trim them off with clean scissors. They will not turn green again and removing them helps the plant focus energy on new growth.

How often should I water my Monstera?

Aim for every 7 to 10 days, but always check the soil dryness first. Never water on a strict schedule if the soil is still wet.

Swiss cheese plant: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger 5 centimeters into the soil to check for dampness.
Lift the pot to see if water is sitting in the saucer.
Inspect the roots for a foul smell or dark color.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil stays soggy for a long time and the leaves feel soft or mushy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 5 centimeters of soil dry out completely. If the soil stays wet, repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil and trim away any black, mushy roots.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools at the bottom of the pot or the drainage holes are blocked.
What to do: Ensure your pot has large drainage holes at the bottom. Use a chunky potting mix with perlite or orchid bark to improve airflow around the roots.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your swiss cheese plant

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the yellowing spreads rapidly across multiple leaves, it is a sign of severe rot. It is normal for the oldest, lowest leaf to turn yellow and die off occasionally.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top 5 centimeters of soil are dry before adding more water. Use a pot with holes to allow excess water to escape.

Swiss cheese plant: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your swiss cheese plant and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Should I cut off the yellow leaves?: Yes, you can trim them off with clean scissors. They will not turn green again and removing them helps the plant focus energy on new growth.
How often should I water my Monstera?: Aim for every 7 to 10 days, but always check the soil dryness first. Never water on a strict schedule if the soil is still wet.

How do I fix root rot in my Swiss cheese plant?