The Purpose and Use of Aerial Roots in Monstera Plants

Many plant enthusiasts, like myself, face a common question when growing monstera plants: what to do with the aerial roots? Monsteras have not only an underground root system but also additional roots that are long and whimsically twisted. 

As it grows, it may appear to have roots emerging out of the center of the stem. This is called an aerial root, and the first time you see it, you might need help figuring out what to do with it. 

These roots, while intriguing, can sometimes detract from the plant’s overall decorative appeal. Pruning them can often be a great help in these situations. This article will show you how to deal with aerial roots and how to use aerial roots to grow more plants.

What Exactly Are Monstera’s Aerial Roots?

A Monstera plant has two distinct root systems that grow below and above ground. Aerial roots are the roots that grow above the surface of the ground. They look like beards and grow from the stem.

Monstera is a plant native to the tropical parts of the U.S. The biggest monstera can grow to and be more than 32 feet long. They develop aerial roots to take in oxygen and moisture from the air without relying solely on their root systems.

What Should You Do With The Aerial Roots Of Monstera?

Monstera aerial roots protrude from the stem and are highly visible, causing concern.

Upon learning that they draw in oxygen, moisture, and other substances from the air, you might wonder, “That’s interesting, but what should I do about it?” This might worry a lot of people.

Here are three methods for dealing with Monstera aerial roots.

Should I Snip the Aerial Roots? Should I keep Them?

The decision to cut Monstera’s aerial roots is optional. The purpose of the giant Monstera’s aerial roots is to aid in the plant’s growth, so cutting them off won’t hurt the plant as long as it stays the size of a houseplant.

The plant can look more balanced if the aerial roots are removed. If you cut the aerial roots off at the base, you don’t have to worry about them.

Wear protective gloves when handling Monstera; the plant’s liquid can cause a skin rash if it comes in contact with the skin.

Burying The Aerial Is Also A Good Idea

When Monstera roots are buried in the ground, the aerial roots do the same job as the original roots. They look different above ground, but when buried in the ground, they change into white roots that are easy to spot.

Use a pole or other support to help direct the aerial roots into the ground as you bury them. They can be trained to wrap around a support pole if not long enough to reach the ground independently.

The moss pole is the most straightforward option for wrapping and guiding the aerial roots though other options, like the coconut fiber pole, are also available.

Stretch Out The Aerial Roots And Admire Their Exotic Look

One of Monstera’s distinguishing features is its aerial roots. If you want to see how exotic Monstera looks in its natural environment, grow it with its aerial roots as long as possible.

But if you let them grow too long, they will become unbalanced. Removing excessively long aerial roots is best to preserve the plant’s natural appearance.

Boosting Your Monstera Plant Using Its Aerial Roots

Aerial roots on a Monstera plant do more than add an exotic flair to its appearance. They also come in handy when you’re looking to increase your plant collection.

You can successfully propagate new Monstera plants using a stem with aerial roots.

I will introduce two effective ways to use Monstera’s aerial roots. Remember that you’ll want to avoid the plant’s dormant period and aim for warmer days, around May to July.

1. Layering
2. Stem Cutting

Layering

Layering is laying a cut stem on top of soil or sphagnum moss to encourage root growth. It might be a less familiar method than cuttings or water propagation, but if you follow the steps, you can easily multiply your plant.

Here’s how you do layering:

• Prepare a new pot, layer some drainage netting at the bottom, and cover it with stones (about an inch or 2.5 cm). Fill it with soil.
• Lay the cut stem on top of the soil to bury the bottom half.
• Manage the plant’s moisture properly until new shoots appear.

Stem Cutting

Stem cutting involves inserting a cut stem into new soil to stimulate root growth. Follow these steps to give Monstera stem cutting a shot:

• In a new pot, layer some drainage netting at the bottom, cover it with stones (around an inch or 2.5 cm), and fill it with soil.
• Cut a stem with aerial roots and plant it in the soil.
• Secure it with more soil and provide ample water.
• Manage the plant’s moisture until new shoots appear.

Caring for Monstera’s Aerial Roots

The aerial roots growing from your Monstera aren’t particularly necessary when growing it as an indoor plant. Cutting them off at the base or guiding them into the soil to function as roots is beneficial.

If you wish to enjoy the distinct appearance of Monstera, as seen in their native habitat, I recommend letting the roots grow while maintaining them properly.

Remember, stems with aerial roots are easier to propagate, so they come in handy when expanding your Monstera collection. Understand the nature of these aerial roots and take care of them correctly to enjoy more of this magnificent plant.