What to Do With Monstera Aerial Roots

The Monstera deliciosa is a popular houseplant, admired for its broad, split leaves. As these plants grow, they produce long, cord-like growths from the main stems known as aerial roots. Their sometimes unruly appearance can be puzzling, but this growth is a normal part of the plant’s maturation. These roots are not a sign of distress but an indication that the plant is behaving as it would in its native habitat.

The Purpose of Aerial Roots

In their natural jungle environment, Monstera plants are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other plants like large trees. Aerial roots are an adaptation for this climbing lifestyle. Their main function is to anchor the plant to tree bark, allowing it to climb upwards towards the light of the forest canopy. This ability to cling and climb is how the plant competes for sunlight.

These roots also absorb moisture and nutrients. In a humid rainforest, they take in water from the air and from rain trickling down tree trunks. This supplements the water the plant receives from its roots in the soil. Seeing these roots on an indoor Monstera is a sign that the plant is mature and healthy.

Managing and Guiding Aerial Roots

As a Monstera owner, you have several options for managing these roots, depending on your aesthetic preference. One popular approach is to guide them onto a moss pole. A moss pole mimics the tree bark a Monstera would naturally climb, providing both support and a source of moisture. Gently wrapping the aerial roots around the pole or securing them with plant-safe ties encourages them to attach, which can promote larger, more fenestrated leaves.

Another strategy is to direct the aerial roots down into the plant’s pot. Once an aerial root is long enough, gently bend it towards the soil surface. You may hear a slight crackle from the root’s outer sheath, but this is harmless as long as the inner root remains intact. Securing the root in the soil helps it establish, providing the plant with an extra anchor point for stability and another way to absorb nutrients.

Leaving the aerial roots to hang freely is also a perfectly acceptable choice that does not cause any harm. This allows the plant to express its wild, jungle-like character. Many owners appreciate this natural look, letting the roots dangle as a unique decorative feature.

Pruning Aerial Roots

A common question is whether it is acceptable to cut off Monstera aerial roots, and the answer is yes. Trimming them will not harm a healthy, well-established indoor plant. The primary reason for pruning is aesthetics; sometimes the roots can become excessively long, tangled, or may attempt to attach to walls and furniture, which could damage surfaces.

Use a pair of clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors to make a clean cut. Trimming the root close to the main stem helps the plant heal more effectively and minimizes the risk of infection. While removing a few roots is fine, keep in mind that the plant loses a potential source for support and moisture. Pruning may also slightly slow the plant’s growth, so it may not be the ideal choice if your goal is to grow the largest plant possible.

Aerial Roots as Health Indicators

The condition of your Monstera’s aerial roots can offer clues about its environment, particularly the humidity levels. Healthy aerial roots are firm and plump. As they age, they develop a brown, somewhat woody exterior, which is a normal part of their development. Paying attention to their texture can help you fine-tune your care routine.

If you notice the aerial roots are becoming dry, shriveled, or brittle, it is a sign that the air in your home is too dry for this tropical plant. Monsteras thrive in humidity levels between 60% and 80%, while average homes are often much lower. To remedy this, you can increase the ambient humidity. Using a humidifier, misting the leaves and aerial roots regularly, or placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water are all effective methods.