Monstera plants, celebrated for their iconic split leaves, often develop distinctive aerial roots from their stems. These roots frequently spark curiosity among plant enthusiasts about their purpose and how they interact with water. Understanding their natural behavior is helpful for optimal plant care.
Understanding Monstera Aerial Roots
Monstera aerial roots are adventitious roots that grow above the soil line. These roots serve multiple functions in their natural habitat, primarily aiding in climbing and providing stability. In the dense rainforests where Monsteras originate, these roots allow the vining plant to attach to trees and other structures, enabling it to climb towards sunlight.
Beyond structural support, aerial roots also absorb moisture and nutrients directly from the air and surrounding debris. While they perform similar functions to soil roots in terms of absorption and support, aerial roots are structurally different. Their presence indicates a healthy, growing Monstera and is a normal part of its development as it matures.
Why Place Monstera Aerial Roots in Water
While not strictly necessary for a Monstera’s survival, placing its aerial roots in water can offer benefits. One reason is to provide supplementary hydration, especially in drier indoor environments with low humidity. Although main water uptake occurs through soil roots, aerial roots can absorb additional moisture from the air or water. This can help the plant maintain turgor pressure.
Another purpose is to encourage the roots to develop further, transitioning from their aerial form to more traditional water-absorbing roots. Some plant owners also use this method as a preparatory step for propagation, as it can encourage the development of water roots before a cutting is planted. However, aerial roots are not designed for permanent submersion, and prolonged exposure can lead to root rot.
Propagating Monstera Using Aerial Roots
Propagating Monstera plants often involves taking stem cuttings that include a node, and an aerial root can be advantageous. While you cannot propagate a new plant from an aerial root alone, a cutting with both a node and an aerial root is ideal. The node is essential as it contains the cells necessary for new root and shoot growth.
To propagate using this method:
- Select a healthy stem section with at least one leaf and a visible node, preferably with an aerial root attached.
- Use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut just below the node.
- Place the cutting in a clear glass or jar filled with fresh water, ensuring the node and aerial root (if present) are submerged while leaves remain above the waterline.
- Change the water every few days to prevent bacterial growth and maintain oxygen levels.
- Roots typically begin to form within a few weeks to a couple of months.
- Once new roots are a few inches long, the cutting can be transferred to a well-draining potting mix.
Common Questions and Care Tips
When keeping Monstera aerial roots in water, several considerations help maintain plant health. While aerial roots can adapt to water, they are not meant for indefinite submersion, and continuous exposure increases the risk of root rot. Signs of root rot include mushy, discolored, or foul-smelling roots. The plant’s leaves may also show symptoms like yellowing, wilting, or dark spots.
To prevent rot, change the water regularly, ideally every few days or at least weekly, to keep it fresh and oxygenated. If you notice any signs of rot, immediately remove the cutting from the water, trim away affected parts with sterilized shears, and consider allowing the cut to callous before re-submerging or potting. For general care, ensuring the main plant in soil receives adequate moisture and humidity will support healthy aerial root development, whether or not they are placed in water.