How to Save a Dying Cheese Plant

Cheese plants, also known as Monstera deliciosa, are popular houseplants known for their large and unique leaves. However, like any other plant, cheese plants can become sickly and start to die. If your cheese plant is struggling, don’t worry. There are several tips and tricks you can use to nurse it back to health.

Identify the problem

The first step in saving a dying cheese plant is identifying the problem. Some common issues that can cause a cheese plant to die include:

• Overwatering: Too much water can lead to root rot, which can kill a plant.
• Underwatering: On the other hand, not enough water can cause a plant to dry out and wilt.
• Poor lighting: Cheese plants need bright, indirect light to thrive. If your plant isn’t getting enough light, it may start to droop or lose its leaves.
• Lack of nutrients: Cheese plants require regular fertilization to stay healthy. Without proper nutrients, they may start to yellow or lose their vibrant colors.

Once you’ve identified the problem with your cheese plant, you can take steps to fix it.

Fix the problem

If you’ve determined that your cheese plant is suffering from overwatering, let the soil dry out before watering again. You may need to repot the plant in fresh soil if the roots have started to rot.

If your cheese plant is underwatered, give it a good drink of water and make sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.

If your cheese plant isn’t getting enough light, move it closer to a window or invest in a grow light. You may also want to prune away any yellowing or dead leaves to help the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.

Finally, if your cheese plant is lacking nutrients, give it a dose of fertilizer. Use a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) to keep your plant healthy and vibrant.

Provide the right environment

In addition to fixing any problems with your cheese plant, you’ll also want to make sure it’s in the right environment to thrive. Cheese plants prefer warm, humid conditions, so consider misting the leaves or placing a humidifier nearby.

It’s also important to keep the plant away from drafts and extreme temperatures. Cheese plants are tropical plants and prefer temperatures between 60-80°F (16-27°C).

Finally, make sure your cheese plant has plenty of room to grow. These plants can get quite large, so be prepared to repot it as needed.

Be patient

Saving a dying cheese plant takes time and patience. Don’t expect to see results overnight. It may take several weeks or even months for your plant to recover fully.

In the meantime, continue to care for your plant by watering it regularly, providing proper lighting and nutrients, and keeping it in the right environment.

FAQ

How often should I water my cheese plant?

Cheese plants prefer moist but not waterlogged soil. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Can I propagate my dying cheese plant?

Yes! Propagating a cheese plant is an excellent way to save a dying plant. Simply cut off a healthy stem with a few leaves and place it in a jar of water or potting soil. Keep the soil moist and wait for roots to grow.

My cheese plant has brown tips on its leaves. What’s wrong?

Brown tips on cheese plant leaves can indicate several problems, including underwatering, overfertilization, or low humidity. Try adjusting your watering schedule or fertilizing less frequently. You may also want to increase humidity levels around the plant.

Can I save a cheese plant that’s lost all of its leaves?

It’s possible, but it can be challenging. If your cheese plant has lost all of its leaves, it may be too late to save it. However, you can try repotting the plant in fresh soil and providing proper care to see if any new growth appears.