- Understand the different growth habits of Monstera adansonii and Monstera dubia
- Learn how indoor conditions affect climbing vs trailing or shingling behavior
- Discover the best support systems for optimal plant growth and shape
- Master step-by-step techniques for training, pruning, shaping, and propagation
- Maintain long-term plant health through monitoring, adjustment, and support care
Introduction to Training and Growth Habits of Monstera Adansonii & Dubia
The Monstera genus is well-loved for its decorative foliage and vining, tropical growth patterns. Native to Central and South America, many Monsteras are natural climbers that use aerial roots to grip trees and ascend toward sunlight.
Monstera adansonii, often dubbed the “Swiss cheese plant,” displays striking fenestrations (holes) in its leaves, giving it an exotic look. This species can trail beautifully in hanging baskets or climb vigorously with the right support.
Monstera dubia, on the other hand, is a shingling plant—an epiphytic climber that adheres tightly to surfaces and grows flat, stacking one leaf atop the other. It undergoes dramatic transformations as it matures, with juvenile leaves staying flat and mature leaves becoming fenestrated and vining.
Training these plants serves multiple purposes: it helps them reach their full potential, encourages fenestration and mature foliage, enhances appearance, and supports healthier structures overall.
For a deeper dive into Monstera care essentials, see our Monstera Care Blueprint: Light, Water, Soil.
Trailing vs Climbing Growth
Knowing how each species grows naturally makes indoor care much easier to manage.
Growth Tendencies
- Monstera adansonii: Naturally vining and often trails from baskets. With support, it easily adopts vertical habits.
- Monstera dubia: Shingles against flat surfaces. In nature, it presses tightly to tree trunks in a flattened, layered form.
Environmental Influences
Indoor airflow, lighting, and support access can shift how these Monsteras behave. Low light may discourage climbing; dry air can inhibit aerial root adherence. Adansonii tends to trail in absence of vertical support, while dubia may stop shingling if not given a moist, flat backing surface.
Planning Growth Forms
If you prefer a compact wall feature or artistic growth structure, plan for climbing systems early. To cascade greenery from shelves or hanging pots, allow natural trailing. Many growers blend both with vertical growth trained from a low container.
Selecting the Right Support System
The foundation of effective Monstera training lies in its support system. Your space, plant variety, and desired look all influence the ideal choice.
Common Plant Supports
| Support Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moss Pole | Adansonii climbing | Moisture-retentive, encourages aerial root attachment | Can mold, requires misting or soaking |
| Wooden Plank | Dubia shingling | Flat surface, durable for tight adhesion | Needs humidity, can darken over time |
| Bamboo Stakes | Small adansonii | Affordable, slim profile | Limited surface area for roots |
| Trellis or Netting | Trailing to climbing transition | Reusable and flexible designs | Visible framework may distract from foliage |
| Cork Board / Mounting Board | Dubia shingling | Naturalistic, usable on vertical walls | Requires secure mounting and maintenance |
Choosing by Species & Space
- Limited floor area? Use wall-mounted boards or slender poles.
- Adansonii prefers coarse material to grip—moss or coconut coir poles are ideal.
- Dubia thrives on flatness—a wooden board or thick cork tile works well.
Training Techniques for Climbing and Shingling
Securing Vines to Supports
Start by guiding stems gently toward the support using:
- Soft plant ties
- Stretchable garden tape
- Horticulture pins for flat boards
Ensure ties are loose enough to grow but secure enough to keep internodes close to the surface.
Root Attachment Tricks
- Mist poles regularly to keep them moist and inviting
- Gently press aerial roots into moss or textured surfaces
- Keep humidity above 60% to encourage faster adhesion
Shingling Dubia
For Monstera dubia, mount the rootball or cutting onto a damp wooden board. Use clear plant tape or gentle pins to help leaves lay flat during the first few weeks. Covering the setup with a clear container or humidity dome can speed adaptation.
Shingling is gradual—most changes become visible within 2–4 weeks depending on conditions. Once shingling starts, it becomes primarily self-sustaining.
Pruning and Shaping Your Monstera
Pruning supports better growth distribution, prevents legginess, and maintains aesthetic appeal.
When and Why to Prune
- In spring or early summer for maximal regrowth
- To remove damaged leaves and stems
- To redirect energy toward stronger vines
Where to Cut
Snip just above a node—the point where a leaf joins the stem—as new growth will emerge from this area. Avoid cutting into the node itself.
Shaping Tips
- Trim straggling stems to keep a compact vertical form
- Use cuts to stimulate fuller side growth in adansonii
- Gradually work vines around or up your support system
Propagating As You Train
Training time doubles as propagation time. When trimming wayward stems, consider turning pruned material into new growth.
Best Propagation Methods
- Water Propagation: Place node cuttings in clean, room-temperature water until roots develop.
- Moss Propagation: Wrap cuttings in damp sphagnum moss in a ventilated container. High humidity speeds root formation.
- Soil Planting: Plant directly into light, moist potting soil with good drainage.
Replant for Volume
Once rooted, propagate cuttings back into the base of the original pot to create a bushier, fuller display—especially effective for Monstera adansonii baskets and clusters.
Maintenance and Aftercare for Trained Monsteras
Fertilization and Health
- Feed monthly during active growth using a balanced liquid fertilizer
- Reduce feeding in winter as growth slows
Monitor for Stress
- Leaves curling or turning yellow? Check watering or humidity levels
- Inspect for spider mites and mealybugs under leaves and near nodes
Support Upkeep
- Replace or refresh moss poles annually
- Clean wooden or cork boards if mold appears
- Repot when roots outgrow their container or supports become unstable
Seasonal Adjustments
During winter, adjust watering schedules, use humidifiers or trays, and ensure your Monstera still gets adequate light—especially if climbing near windows.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Monstera Training
Training your Monstera adansonii or dubia unlocks their most stunning visual and biological potential. Whether encouraging fenestrated, lush vines or a perfectly flat stack of shimmering leaves, the process is both rewarding and meditative.
Be patient—both species take time to adapt to supports and respond to pruning. Every plant is different, and your unique approach will evolve over time.
Ready to go deeper? Visit our comprehensive Monstera Care Blueprint: Light, Water, Soil to ensure your training efforts have the foundation they need.
