Philodendron Verrucosum, a striking plant known for its velvety leaves, is a popular choice for indoor growers. In its natural environment, the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, this hemiepiphyte climbs trees for support to reach light. Mimicking this natural climbing habit in a home setting is essential for its optimal development, and a moss pole serves as an effective tool.
Why Philodendron Verrucosum Needs a Moss Pole
Providing a moss pole offers several advantages for robust growth. In their native habitat, these plants climb to access more light, and a moss pole facilitates this upward trajectory. This vertical support encourages the plant to produce larger, more mature leaves, often displaying its full potential for size and fenestrations.
A moss pole also supports the development of aerial roots, a defining characteristic of many climbing aroids. These specialized roots readily attach to the moist surface of the pole, allowing the plant to absorb additional moisture and nutrients directly from the moss. This supplementary nutrient uptake contributes to the plant’s overall vigor and health, leading to lush and stable growth. Furthermore, vertical growth improves air circulation around the foliage, which can help mitigate fungal issues and ensures even light exposure for all leaves.
Choosing and Preparing Your Moss Pole
Selecting the appropriate moss pole is important for support and moisture retention. Moss poles are typically made from sphagnum moss or coco coir wrapped around a sturdy core like PVC or bamboo. Sphagnum moss poles are often favored because they retain moisture more effectively than coco coir, which benefits the plant’s aerial roots.
When choosing a pole, consider its height and diameter. The pole should be tall enough to accommodate the plant’s future growth, ideally at least as tall as the plant itself. A wider diameter pole provides a larger surface area for roots to attach and holds more moss, contributing to greater stability and moisture volume. Before use, thoroughly soak the moss pole in water for 15-30 minutes, ensuring it is fully hydrated and pliable. This initial saturation provides moisture to the plant’s aerial roots and prepares the pole for easy attachment.
Attaching and Training Your Philodendron Verrucosum
Properly attaching and training your Philodendron Verrucosum to a moss pole ensures successful vertical growth. Begin by gently removing the plant from its current pot, avoiding root damage. Position the moss pole in the center of the pot, ensuring it is firmly inserted into the potting mix for stability. If the pole is too tall, it can be trimmed to a suitable height.
Once the pole is in place, position the Philodendron Verrucosum with its main stem facing the moss pole. Gently secure the stem to the pole using soft ties like plant clips, garden twine, or Velcro plant ties, ensuring not to tie them too tightly, which could damage the stem. Direct existing aerial roots towards the moss pole, encouraging them to grow into the moist moss. As the plant grows, continue to guide new growth and secure it to the pole, allowing the plant to naturally anchor itself.
Maintaining Your Moss Pole for Optimal Growth
Consistent maintenance of the moss pole is important for the ongoing health and development of your Philodendron Verrucosum. The moss pole needs to be kept consistently moist to encourage aerial root attachment and provide a continuous source of hydration and nutrients. This can be achieved by regularly misting the pole, particularly where aerial roots are forming, or by pouring water down the pole until saturated. Some growers water the pole every 2-3 days, or when the moss feels dry to the touch.
If aerial roots are not attaching, ensure higher humidity around the plant and consistent moisture in the pole. Wrapping portions of the pole in plastic sheeting can help retain moisture longer, especially in dry environments. As the plant grows taller and reaches the top of the pole, extend the support by attaching an additional moss pole section. This allows the plant to continue its upward climb, promoting larger leaf development and maintaining its overall vigor.