We grow monstera deliciosa (split leaf philodendron) for commercial leaf production, and we are seeing a yellow mottling of the leaves which makes them unsaleable.

I am including a photo at

http://www.hawaiifoliage.com/monstera_mottled.jpg

Will be most grateful for any comments.

Aloha
Mike Clark

Thanks for your reply.

I have been growing monstera for several years, both from cuttings and from seed. In the tropics they need some shade, or a permanently overcast climate, to prevent sunburn -- that causes a general yellowing.

I see the mottled condition repeatedly, sometimes more pronounced and widespread than at other times. There is some indentation in the leaves. I have thought that drought during a leaf juvenile phase might cause the indentation and yellowing. Also I have thought that herbicide use might contribute. Soil pH is an interesting question. These plants do GREAT under ironwood trees (Casuarina equisetifolia) which cover the ground with needles, and basically NOTHING else grows, no weeds, just a few ferns. I assume high acidity, though I have not tested. We get average 130" annual rainfall, so one assumes acidity everywhere without treatment.

Mike

One plant is showing similar symptoms to yours, and I had been wondering about it, so was pleased to see your post. In light of your post I might perhaps bin it.