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The 'Monstera Deliciosa 'Yellow Marilyn' is a specific cultivar of the Monstera deliciosa species known for its striking yellow or lime-green variegation. While it is a type of Monstera Aurea (the general term for yellow-variegated Monsteras), 'Yellow Marilyn' is considered a distinct, large-form variety with vivid, often sectoral, variegation.
Here is a guide to caring for your Monstera Deliciosa Yellow Marilyn :
1. Light
Bright, Indirect Light is Critical: This is the most important factor for maintaining the 'Yellow Marilyn's' variegation. The yellow parts of the leaves, like the white parts on an 'Albo,' lack chlorophyll and cannot photosynthesize. The green parts must work overtime to produce energy for the whole plant.
Avoid Direct Sun: Direct sunlight will easily scorch and burn the delicate yellow portions of the leaves, turning them brown and crispy. A spot near a bright window that gets morning sun or is filtered by a sheer curtain is ideal.
Provide Sufficient Light: If the plant does not receive enough light, the new leaves will emerge with less variegation or may even revert to all green in an attempt to produce more chlorophyll for energy. A high-quality full-spectrum grow light can be a great investment if you don't have enough natural light.
2. Watering
Check Before Watering: Allow the top 2-3 inches of the soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering is a common problem for Monsteras and can lead to root rot.
Thorough Drainage: Always use a pot with drainage holes. When you water, do so thoroughly until water runs out of the bottom of the pot. This ensures the roots get a good soak while preventing water from sitting at the bottom of the pot.
Water Quality: Variegated plants can be sensitive to mineral and salt buildup in tap water. Using distilled or filtered water, or allowing tap water to sit out for 24 hours to let chlorine dissipate, can be beneficial.
3. Soil and Potting
Chunky, Well-Draining Soil: The plant's natural habitat is on the forest floor, where it receives excellent aeration. A good soil mix should be chunky and well-draining to prevent the roots from suffocating. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark or coco coir works well.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes. Choose a pot that is only one size larger than the current one to prevent the soil from holding too much moisture.
4. Humidity and Temperature
High Humidity: As a tropical plant, the 'Yellow Marilyn' prefers high humidity, ideally above 60%. Low humidity can lead to the crispy, brown edges on the variegated parts of the leaves.
Increase Humidity: You can increase humidity by using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray with water, or grouping it with other plants.
Warmth: Maintain a stable temperature between 65-85°F (18-30°C). Avoid cold drafts from windows or air conditioning vents, and keep it away from heaters.
5. Fertilizing
During the Growing Season: Fertilize your 'Yellow Marilyn' every 2-4 weeks during the spring and summer (the active growing season). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength to avoid burning the roots.
Winter Dormancy: Reduce or stop fertilizing during the fall and winter when the plant's growth naturally slows down.
6. General Care
Moss Pole or Support: The 'Yellow Marilyn' is a climbing plant. Providing a moss pole or trellis to climb will encourage the plant to produce larger, more mature leaves with the iconic fenestrations (splits and holes).
Pruning: You can prune the plant to control its size or to remove damaged or discolored leaves. Pruning is also a way to encourage more balanced variegation. If you notice a stem producing all-green leaves (reverting), you can prune it back to the last variegated leaf to encourage new, variegated growth.
Pest and Disease Control: Inspect your plant regularly for common houseplant pests like spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs.
Toxicity: Be aware that all parts of the Monstera deliciosa are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep it out of reach of children and animals.
