Question
Dear Darlene,
I have had a Monstera Deliciosa for about 6 months, during which time it has been very strong and healthy. It is still growing vigorously, but now new leaves are appearing which are deformed. The ends of them are unfinished, as if something has eaten them before they even unfurl. Also, there are small, raised tracks, like scars, appearing on some older leaves. Any ideas what this is and how I can treat it, please?

Answer
Fiona,

Your Monsetera Deliciosa has leaf miners, an insect that is laying eggs on the growing leaf tips and the larva are crawling around inside the leaf before it unfurls and causes it to be deformed. When the insect matures it crawls out of the leaf as a mature strange looking fly which lays eggs on the plant and the eggs hatch and the larva burrow into the leaf and start the cycle all over. To stop it you need to get Neem oil at your garden center, I know Lowes carries it, and spray the plant according to the instructions on the bottle. Spray it once a week for 4 weeks to stop the cycle then watch the plant closley for signs of new infestations. Damaged leaves can be removed or the plant can be cut back and it will regrow out. If you have more questions feel free to write again. Good luck.

Darlene