Monstera plants, particularly the popular Monstera deliciosa, are known for their large, fenestrated leaves that give them the common name Swiss Cheese Plant. As these tropical vines mature, they naturally develop thick, rope-like structures that emerge from the stem and grow into the air. These are known as aerial roots, and their appearance often prompts questions from houseplant owners about how to manage them. Understanding the purpose of these unique growths and knowing how to handle them safely will ensure your plant remains healthy and continues to thrive indoors.
The Biological Function of Monstera Aerial Roots
Aerial roots are a type of adventitious root, meaning they develop from non-root tissue, specifically from the nodes along the plant’s main stem. These roots are distinct from the primary subterranean roots that grow directly into the potting medium. Monstera is an epiphyte in its native environment, meaning it grows on the surface of another plant, usually a tree, without acting as a parasite.
The two main functions of these woody growths are structural support and resource absorption. In the rainforest, the roots latch onto tree bark or other structures, allowing the Monstera to climb upward toward the light canopy. This anchoring provides the stability needed for the plant to support its increasingly large and heavy foliage.
Aerial roots also play a role in nutrient and moisture uptake, which is especially important in the humid, tropical air. They can absorb water directly from the air and gather organic debris and nutrients found on the surfaces they cling to.
Determining If and When to Trim
Removing aerial roots is generally safe for an established and otherwise healthy Monstera, provided it has a robust root system in the soil. Trimming is never a biological necessity for the plant’s survival in a home environment, and owners typically choose to do so purely for aesthetic reasons or to prevent obstruction. The plant’s underground roots perform the majority of the water and nutrient absorption, making the aerial roots somewhat redundant indoors.
Owners should avoid trimming if the plant is showing signs of stress, such as being newly repotted or recovering from a pest infestation. If your Monstera is very large and heavily relies on its aerial roots for stability, removing too many at once could cause the plant to lean or lose its upright structure. If your indoor environment is particularly dry, the plant may be using these roots to gather ambient moisture, and their removal could hinder its hydration efforts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Safely Cutting Aerial Roots
Preparation involves selecting and sterilizing your cutting tool to prevent the introduction of pathogens into the plant’s vascular system. Use sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears, and wipe the blades with rubbing alcohol or a 10% bleach solution. A sharp tool ensures a quick, clean cut that minimizes damage to the plant tissue.
Identify the root you wish to remove and determine where to make the cut. You should cut the root as close to the main stem as is visually pleasing, but be cautious not to nick or damage the stem itself. The root should be cut at a slight angle, which reduces the surface area where moisture can collect, helping the wound heal faster.
Execute the cut in a swift, decisive motion to create a smooth surface rather than a jagged one. After the root is removed, no special wound dressing or sealant is required; the plant will naturally callous over the cut site. Discard the severed root piece and monitor the plant over the next few weeks, ensuring regular watering practices are maintained to support its primary root system.
Alternative Methods for Managing Aerial Roots
Instead of cutting, many plant owners choose to manage the aerial roots by redirecting them for better structure or function. Training the roots onto a support structure like a moss pole or trellis is a common method that mimics the plant’s natural climbing habit. For this to be effective, the support should be kept moist, often by misting, to encourage the roots to adhere and potentially absorb extra water.
Another effective alternative is to guide the aerial roots directly into the potting medium. When an aerial root reaches the soil, it can transition its function to act more like a traditional underground root, helping to absorb water and nutrients. This process provides additional stability and hydration without resorting to cutting. Gently tucking the ends of the aerial roots into the soil allows the plant to naturally integrate these structures into its root ball.