Are you a proud Monstera plant parent, intrigued by those quirky aerial roots sprouting from your leafy friend? If you’ve ever wondered what to do with them, you’re not alone.
Stunningly unique? Absolutely. But also…a bit of an enigma. To dunk or not to dunk – that is the burning question.
Join me as we separate fact from fiction and uncover whether submerging these atmospheric roots is a genius hack or a one-way ticket to root rot city.
Getting to Know Monstera’s Aerial Roots
Monstera plants hail from the verdant jungles of Central and South America, where they naturally climb up trees and cliffs using those wild aerial roots. And those airborne lifelines aren’t just for show – they serve vital functions that help these tropical beauties thrive.
#1 Support and Stability
In their natural rainforest homes, Monsteras are like rock climbers, using those aerial roots as personal grappling hooks to ascend tall trees.
The roots latch on tight, creating an intricate network of support cables that allows the plant to tower above the jungle floor in its quest for those coveted sunny spots.
Without this ingenious anchoring system, our green friends would be stuck hugging the ground.
#2 Moisture and Nutrient Absorption
But those aerial roots aren’t just for climbing – they also absorb moisture and nutrients from the air.
The roots can slurp up water vapor from humid jungle air and even drink any nutrient-laced raindrops or plant juices trickling down the trunk.
#3 Humidity Sensing
Here’s where it gets even more mind-blowing: Monsteras’ aerial roots don’t just absorb moisture – they sense humidity levels like finely tuned meteorologists.
If the air gets uncomfortably dry, those roots can signal the plant to adjust its water retention or pump the brakes on growth until conditions are more favorable.
It’s like they have an innate survival switch that clicks on to preserve the plant’s resources when the humidity drops. Genius!
So Should You Put Monstera’s Aerial Roots In Water?
The short answer is no, you should not soak Monstera’s aerial roots in water. AS mentioned, these roots have evolved for a very specific purpose – to absorb moisture and nutrients from the humid air around them, not to be constantly submerged.
Unlike the roots anchored in soil, which require consistent watering, aerial roots lack the protective outer layers that prevent them from becoming waterlogged.
Keeping them submerged or overly wet for extended periods can lead to root rot. This happens because the roots are deprived of oxygen, leading to the growth of harmful fungi and bacteria.
Do Monstera Aerial Roots Need Soil?
Ok, now you may wonder whether these aerial roots require being planted in soil. The simple answer is – not necessarily. When grown indoors, they don’t need to be submerged in soil to thrive.
If your Monstera’s aerial roots aren’t obstructing anything, feel free to allow them to grow unrestrained. They lend a distinctive, naturalistic appearance to your plant and can assist in stabilizing it.
While you can guide them into the potting soil, it’s not essential. The main root system established in the soil handles the majority of water and nutrient uptake for the plant.
How to Care for Monstera Aerial Roots
Since soaking Monstera aerial roots isn’t recommended, how can you ensure they receive the right care? Here are a few tips you should follow:
Pruning When Necessary
Don’t hesitate to trim aerial roots if they become too unwieldy. Use a sterile cutting tool to prevent infections or diseases. Make sure not to remove more than 20% of the root mass at a time to avoid stressing the plant.
Regular pruning can help keep your Monstera manageable, promote healthier growth, and prevent the roots from overtaking your living space.
Extra Tip: When pruning, examine the roots for any signs of rot or disease. Removing unhealthy parts can prevent problems from spreading to the rest of the plant.
Direct the Roots
If the aerial roots start to grow out of control or interfere with your space, you can gently guide them back into the pot or towards a support structure. This not only helps manage their length but also supports the plant’s stability and can aid in nutrient absorption.
By directing the roots back into the soil, they can contribute to the plant’s overall nutrient uptake and hydration.
Extra Tip: Use soft plant ties or clips to secure the roots in place. Avoid using materials that can cut into or damage the roots.
Maintain Proper Humidity
Monsteras love humid environments. If your home tends to be dry, consider misting your plant regularly or using a humidifier nearby to maintain the humidity levels.
Placing your Monstera in a bathroom can also provide the steamy conditions it thrives in. Consistent humidity helps the plant to absorb moisture through its aerial roots, promoting lush, healthy foliage.
Extra Tip: Monitor the humidity levels using a hygrometer. Aim for a humidity level of around 60-70% for optimal growth. Additionally, grouping your Monstera with other plants can create a more humid microenvironment.
Support with Moss Poles
Providing a moss pole or similar support can encourage upward growth. The aerial roots will attach to the pole and absorb moisture from it, mimicking their natural environment and promoting healthy development.
A moss pole not only provides physical support but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your plant.
Extra Tip: Keep the moss pole moist to ensure the aerial roots have a constant source of water. You can wrap the pole with sphagnum moss and secure it with twine. Regularly mist the pole or water it during your plant’s watering routine.
