- What aerial roots are and why Monstera plants develop them
- How aerial roots benefit Monstera in their natural habitat and indoors
- Whether to trim, train, or tuck aerial roots—and how to do each
- Using aerial roots in propagation methods
- Tips to manage overgrown roots without harming the plant
- How aerial roots affect overall plant health and maintenance
Introduction to Aerial Roots
Monstera plants, especially Monstera deliciosa, are iconic for their dramatic split leaves and rapid growth. But alongside those gorgeous greens grow something often unexpected—long, ropey structures known as aerial roots. These roots appear even in indoor environments, puzzling many new plant parents.
Aerial roots are specialized stems that grow above the soil and serve multiple purposes. Outdoors in tropical forests, Monsteras use aerial roots to anchor and climb up trees, gaining greater access to light. Indoors, though, these roots have to adapt to a very different environment. Unlike underground roots that absorb water from soil, aerial roots serve more dynamic purposes and need thoughtful care.
So what makes aerial roots so special—and what should you do about them in your home? Let’s dig in.
Function and Benefits of Aerial Roots
In the wild, Monstera plants are epiphytic climbers. They use aerial roots to attach themselves to trunks and surfaces for vertical support. But that’s just part of the puzzle. Here’s the full breakdown:
Support and Stability
Aerial roots act like anchors, helping Monsteras scale trees and stabilize thick stems as the plant grows heavier with age. Indoors, these roots often seek nearby structures like moss poles or walls.
Moisture and Nutrient Absorption
In humid climates, aerial roots absorb moisture and essential nutrients from the air and rain. While they aren’t the primary source of hydration, they give the plant a boost, especially during dry spells.
Increased Access to Light and Air
By allowing Monsteras to climb, aerial roots position leaves closer to light sources. This is crucial in home environments where natural light is less intense than tropical daylight.
Indoor Adaptation
Inside your home, these roots might take creative turns—crawling down pots, curling on the floor, or switching to support mode on a moss pole. While they still seek moisture and anchors, they also reflect how your plant is adapting to its surroundings.
Trimming vs Training vs Tucking: What to Do With Aerial Roots
If aerial roots have taken over your living room, you’re not alone. Many Monstera owners debate whether to trim, train, or tuck them. Here’s how to choose your approach:
Trimming Aerial Roots
- Pros: Cleaner appearance, easier to manage, reduced tangling
- Cons: Cutting can shock the plant if not done properly
Tip: Only trim with sterilized scissors or pruners, and always cut close to the node—not flush against the stem. Avoid trimming during active growing seasons unless roots are damaged or extremely messy.
Training Aerial Roots
Want a more natural look? Try training roots onto a support. Use moss poles, trellises, or coir poles to imitate a tree in the jungle.
- Mist the moss or coir pole lightly to increase humidity.
- Secure the aerial root using plant ties or soft twine.
- Encourage the root to enter the moist surface by gradually repositioning as it grows.
Tucking Aerial Roots
If you prefer a clean look without trimming, tuck aerial roots into the planter or wrap them around the stem base. This preserves the root while keeping your space tidy.
Warning: Don’t force roots into dry or compacted soil. That can cause rot or stem damage. Use light soil and keep it moist if roots begin growing inward.
Using Aerial Roots for Propagation
Propagating Monstera with aerial roots can make the process faster and smoother, but there are common misconceptions. Let’s clarify:
Do Aerial Roots Help Propagation?
Yes! When you take a cutting that includes a node and aerial root, the cutting adjusts and roots more quickly. However…
Can Aerial Roots Alone Propagate a New Plant?
No. An aerial root without a node (the segment where a leaf and bud develop) will not form a new Monstera. You must include at least one node in your cutting.
Propagation Methods
| Method | How Aerial Roots Help | Expected Time |
|---|---|---|
| Water Propagation | Speeds up root development if submerged | 2–4 weeks for root growth |
| Soil Propagation | Stabilizes cutting and retains humidity if tucked in | 3–5 weeks to establish |
Managing Overgrown Roots: Practical Solutions
As your Monstera matures, aerial roots can sprawl excessively. Here’s how to keep things under control while supporting healthy growth:
When Are Aerial Roots “Too Much”?
If roots are:
- Growing into doorways or furniture
- Drying out, cracking, or breaking
- Trapping moisture or causing odor near soil
—it may be time to trim or redirect them.
Pruning Excess Aerial Roots
- Use sterilized pruning shears.
- Cut the root 1–2 inches away from the node.
- Never remove all roots at once—do it gradually to avoid stress.
Styling with Aerial Roots
Some plant parents style aerial roots around trellises or weave them decoratively around macrame plant hangers. This adds a jungle look to any room while maximizing vertical space.
Environmental Factors
Rapid aerial root growth may signal high humidity or a low-light environment. Adjust accordingly by:
- Reducing misting if roots are overly wet
- Increasing natural light to discourage random root extension
Impact on Plant Health
Aerial roots are more than cosmetic—they reflect your Monstera’s overall condition.
Healthy vs Unhealthy Aerial Roots
| Healthy Aerial Roots | Unhealthy Aerial Roots |
|---|---|
| Firm to the touch | Soft, mushy, or brittle |
| Gray, greenish-brown, or tan | Black, slimy, or discolored |
| Grows slowly or attaches to pole | Rapid overgrowth or foul smell |
Preventing Root Rot
Keep aerial roots dry when misting and ensure pots have proper drainage. Rot often starts in overly moist conditions—and aerial roots aren’t immune.
Do Aerial Roots Indicate a Problem?
Not usually. However, sudden explosive root growth may signal stress, such as low light or poor soil quality. Review your full Monstera care routine to ensure balance. For a complete guide to light, watering, and soil strategies, check out our Monstera Care Blueprint.
Conclusion
Aerial roots are a natural and beautiful part of your Monstera’s life cycle. They reflect the plant’s attempt to thrive—just like in the wild jungle canopy.
Whether you embrace their wild energy or keep things tidy with styling and trimming, there’s no one right way to handle aerial roots. Choose what works best for your space and your plant’s health.
Final Tips for Managing Aerial Roots
- Don’t panic when you see them—they’re normal.
- Train or tuck before you trim to minimize shock.
- Monitor humidity and lighting to prevent wild growth.
- Use them to your advantage in propagation.
Ready to take your Monstera care to the next level? Visit our expert-backed Monstera Care Blueprint and learn how light, water, and soil directly impact root development.
FAQs
- Can I cut all aerial roots off my Monstera? It’s not recommended. Removing all roots can stress the plant. Trim selectively if necessary.
- How many aerial roots are too many? There’s no fixed number—it depends on your space and plant care goals. If roots hinder movement or indicate poor light, it’s time to assess.
Sources
- University of Florida IFAS Extension – Monstera Plant Care
- Royal Horticultural Society – Aerial Root Growth and Function
- American Society of Horticultural Science – Epiphytic Plant Adaptations
