Monstera Aerial Roots: 7 Things to Know About Them – These fast-growing roots can get messy quickly.
Are you on the hunt for a stylish and low-maintenance houseplant? Monstera varieties, known for their distinctive fenestrated (holey) leaves, are a popular choice. However, one feature that can shift a monstera’s look from sleek to unruly is its aerial roots. So, what’s the best way to handle these prominent protrusions? Should you trim them, or leave them as they are?
Read on to discover essential information about monstera aerial roots and the best practices for managing them.
Aerial Roots
Aerial roots are those that grow above ground and are classified as adventitious roots since they emerge from the stem. They play a crucial role in anchoring the plant, reaching for light, and absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air. These roots are commonly found on epiphytes (plants growing on other plants), tropical swamp trees, and vining plants, including monsteras.
1. Monstera Aerial Roots Aren’t Harmful
- Impact on Plant: Despite their potentially unruly appearance, monstera aerial roots are not harmful to the plant or its surroundings. They contribute to the plant’s support, helping it cling to structures like moss poles or trellises, which prevents it from drooping.
- Aesthetic Choices: Some plant enthusiasts appreciate the jungle-like vibe these roots add, while others prefer a tidier look and might choose to trim them or redirect them into the soil.
2. You Can Direct the Aerial Roots Back into the Soil
- Training Roots: If you’re not fond of the visible roots, consider guiding them back into the potting medium. This allows them to continue absorbing nutrients and offers support without constantly needing external structures like moss poles.
- Handling Mature Roots: When bending mature, woody roots, you might hear a snap. This is usually just the outer casing breaking, with the inner root remaining intact. Keep in mind, though, that roots will likely reappear through the soil over time.
3. It’s Fine to Cut Off Aerial Roots
- Trimming Tips: Monstera roots can grow rapidly and become quite thick. If a cleaner look is preferred, it’s perfectly acceptable to trim these roots back close to the stem. Use sterilized, sharp shears to avoid spreading disease. Be prepared for new roots to emerge in their place.
4. Train Aerial Roots For a Tidier Look and Extra Support
- Climbing Habits: Monstera roots have a natural tendency to climb. They can be trained to grow along walls, shelves, or trellises. Young roots are flexible and easy to guide, but mature, woody roots might require additional encouragement.
- Support Techniques: For best results, mist the trellis or moss pole and tie the roots to the support to promote attachment.
5. Repot Monsteras with Aerial Roots Carefully
- Repotting Challenges: Annual repotting is necessary for fast-growing monsteras. When aerial roots are entwined with supports, it requires careful handling.
- Process: Tip the pot onto its side and arrange the plant and roots on a supportive surface. Having an assistant can make this easier. Tease the root ball out gently, ensuring not to damage the plant. Wrapping the plant and roots in a sheet can help if you’re working alone. If some roots break, don’t worry; healthy plants can handle this.
6. Propagation Isn’t Possible From Aerial Roots
- Propagation Facts: Aerial roots cannot be used for propagation since they lack the nodes necessary for new root development. Instead, propagate monsteras through healthy stem cuttings (with a node), air layering, or division.
7. Don’t Put Aerial Roots in Water
- Watering Advice: A common misconception is that placing aerial roots in water helps the plant. However, these roots aren’t meant to be submerged and doing so can cause root rot. Instead, maintain proper soil moisture by checking the top few inches of soil before watering deeply.
FAQ
Why is my monstera growing large aerial roots? Monstera aerial roots grow quickly because they capture nutrients from the air to support the plant. They may extend up to 3 feet as they seek light and support.
Is it better to trim or tuck aerial roots? Tucking aerial roots back into the pot is generally more effective, as trimming requires ongoing maintenance due to the rapid growth of these roots.
By understanding how to manage monstera aerial roots, you can ensure your plant remains both healthy and aesthetically pleasing.
