As your Monstera grows, you’ll start to notice those long, brown aerial roots snaking out from the stems. They can get pretty long, and let’s be honest—not everyone loves the “wild jungle” look. You might be wondering if it’s okay to just snip those unsightly roots off. Before you grab your shears, let’s talk about what those roots are actually doing and how to handle them like a pro!
Why does your Monstera grow aerial roots?
In their natural habitat, Monstera plants are native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. They are natural climbers, and as they get bigger, their appetite for water and nutrients grows, too. Often, the roots tucked away in the potting soil just aren’t enough to keep up with the plant’s needs.
That’s where aerial roots come in! They sprout from the leaf nodes to help the plant “breathe” and soak up extra moisture and nutrients from the humid air. But they aren’t just for feeding; in the wild, these sturdy roots act like anchors, helping the Monstera latch onto trees and climb toward the sunlight.
Can I just cut the aerial roots off?
If you have a healthy, growing Monstera, you should really only cut the aerial roots as a last resort. Think of it this way: every time you snip one off, you’re taking away a source of energy and stability for your plant. However, if a root is getting a little too friendly with your furniture or neighboring plants, you can trim it. It’s also perfectly fine to remove roots that are completely dried out or dead.
If you do decide to do some pruning, always use a sharp knife or shears that have been disinfected with rubbing alcohol. To help the plant heal and stop any “bleeding” sap, you can dab the cut end with a little charcoal powder or rock dust. Your Monstera will definitely appreciate the extra care!
Why are my Monstera’s aerial roots getting so long?
If your plant is putting out exceptionally long aerial roots, it might be trying to tell you something. Usually, “leggy” aerial roots are a sign that the plant is searching for more water or nutrients that it isn’t getting from its soil. It could also be a cry for help because it lacks a proper support to climb. Here’s how to keep those roots in check and your plant happy:
- Water your soil regularly with filtered or soft water.
- Give the leaves and aerial roots a nice misting every three days.
- Feed your plant with liquid fertilizer every two weeks in the summer and every four to six weeks during the winter.
- Provide a moss pole or trellis so your Monstera has something to climb.
Pro Tip: Instead of cutting them, try tucking the long aerial roots back into the pot. This allows the plant to root them into the soil, giving it a massive boost of stability and nutrients!
