Can I Cut Monstera Aerial Roots – Is it Okay?

Yes, you can cut Monstera aerial roots if necessary. If the roots are giving trouble or damaged, trimming them can be done carefully to maintain the plant’s health. Ensure you use clean, sharp tools and make the right cuts.

The Monstera plant is a popular showy houseplant. It is characterized by its large, glossy green leaves that often develop unique splits and holes, adding to its charm.

Native to tropical rainforests, Monstera plants are known for their ability to climb using aerial roots and can reach impressive heights if given proper support. 

They are low-maintenance plants and can grow in a variety of light situations. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Monstera plant also improves air quality by filtering toxins.

Whether placed in a hanging basket or allowed to climb on a trellis, the Monstera plant adds a touch of natural beauty to any indoor space.

What Are Aerial Roots?

Aerial roots are special structures that certain plants, like Monstera, develop. Instead of growing underground in the soil like most roots, these roots grow above the ground.

They typically start as small bumps or nodes on the stems or branches of the plant and then extend outward, hanging down like strings or threads. 

Aerial roots serve important purposes for the plant’s survival. They act as anchors, helping the plant to grip onto surfaces such as trees or rocks. This gives the plant extra support and prevents it from falling over. 

Moreover, aerial roots absorb moisture and nutrients. When aerial roots hang down and touch the forest floor, they undergo a remarkable transformation.

They change into regular roots that grow underground and function just like any other root. These underground roots have the important job of absorbing water and nutrients from the soil. 

Can You Cut Aerial Roots Monstera?

Aerial roots are those long, hanging roots that you might see on your Monstera. While they might seem unusual, these roots actually serve important purposes for the plant. They help the Monstera cling to surfaces and provide support. Also, these roots can absorb moisture and nutrients from the air, which is pretty cool too.

So, Can You Cut Aerial Roots Monstera? Well, it depends. If the aerial roots are causing problems, like getting tangled and outgrown then it might be necessary to trim them. To do it, carefully use clean, sharp tools to cut them off.

Further, if you notice any dry or diseased aerial roots, removing them can help maintain the overall health of your Monstera. By getting rid of those damaged roots, you’re giving the plant a better chance to thrive.

Remember that maintaining a healthy environment for your Monstera is necessary. Provide it with suitable light, water, and proper care to encourage strong root growth and overall well-being.

Why Do Monstera Have Aerial Roots?

Monstera plant roots serve important purposes in the plant’s natural habitat. When you see those long, dangling roots, they’re not just for show they actually play a crucial role in the Monstera’s survival.

One main reason for aerial roots is to help the plant anchor itself and find support. In the wild, Monstera plants often grow in tropical rainforests where they need to climb to reach higher levels of sunlight. 

These aerial roots act like natural hooks or anchors, allowing the plant to cling to surfaces such as tree trunks or rocks. This support helps the Monstera stay upright and secure.

Also, aerial roots have an amazing ability to absorb moisture and nutrients from the air. In the rainforest, where the soil may not always be rich in nutrients, these roots come to help. They reach out into the air and absorb moisture, as well as nutrients. This adaption helps the plant get the nourishment it needs to grow and thrive.

While it might be troubling to cut these aerial roots for aesthetic reasons, it’s important to remember that they serve vital functions for the plant’s well-being. However, if the roots become overly invasive or create a problem, careful trimming can be done. 

Can You Propagate Monstera with Aerial Root?

If you’re wondering whether you can use the aerial roots of a Monstera plant to propagate it, the answer is no. While aerial roots are fascinating and serve important functions for the plant, they alone cannot be used to propagate a new Monstera plant.

The leaves of the Monstera plant are crucial because they perform photosynthesis. So, without leaves, the new plant wouldn’t have the energy it needs to grow and thrive.

Moreover, aerial roots by themselves cannot sprout new roots and leaves to form a new Monstera plant. To propagate a Monstera, you always need a stem that includes leaves and a node. The node is a small bump on the stem that plays a vital role in root development.

By taking a stem cutting that includes a node and a few leaves, and placing it in water or soil, you can encourage the development of new roots and eventually grow a new Monstera plant.

Also Read: How Long Can Monstera Live in Water?

How to Cut Monstera Aerial Roots?

If the roots are causing issues like tangling or invading other plants or objects, or if they appear dry or diseased, it might be a good idea to trim them.

Use clean and sharp pruning shears or scissors to make precise cuts. It’s important to have clean tools to minimize the risk of introducing any infections or diseases to the plant.

Identify the point where you want to make the cut. Aim to trim the aerial root close to the stem or main plant, without damaging the main roots or stem itself.

Hold the aerial root, and carefully cut it just above the point where you want to remove it. 

Is It Ok to Cut Off Monstera Aerial Roots?

Aerial roots play important roles for the plant, so it’s generally best to avoid cutting them unless necessary.

Aerial roots help Monstera plants attach to surfaces and provide support as they grow. Additionally, these roots can absorb moisture and nutrients from the air. So, if the aerial roots are healthy and not causing any problems, it’s generally better to leave them be.

However, when cutting the aerial root is necessary, you can do it. Further, if you see any diseased aerial roots, you can remove them immediately.

Check this out: Will Monstera Grow Back After Cutting?

Why Does My Monstera Not Have Aerial Roots?

If your Monstera plant doesn’t have any aerial roots, there could be a few reasons behind it. One possibility is that your plant is still young. 

Young Monstera plants normally don’t develop aerial roots until they have grown larger, usually around 1 year or more. 

Another thing is that when the stems of the Monstera come into contact with moist surfaces, such as a moss pole, they are more likely to produce aerial roots. 

Another one is higher humidity levels can also promote the development of aerial roots. Monstera plants naturally grow these roots in search of water, and nutrients, and to stabilize themselves as they climb. 

In their native tropical habitats, Monstera plants climb trees using their aerial roots to grip rough surfaces and absorb moisture. 

Therefore, increasing the humidity around your Monstera can help encourage the plant to produce aerial roots.

Also Read: Can Monstera Plant Live Outside?

Why Is My Monstera Growing Aerial Roots?

If you notice your Monstera plant growing aerial roots, it’s actually a natural and healthy habit. Here are a few reasons why your Monstera might be producing aerial roots – 

1. Searching for support and stability

In their natural habitat, Monstera plants climb trees using aerial roots to support themselves and reach sunlight.

When grown indoors, the plant may still have this behaviour, even without a tree to climb. The aerial roots act as anchors, helping the plant stabilize and maintain its position.

2. Seeking water and nutrients

Aerial roots also serve as a way for the Monstera to access additional water and nutrients. These roots have the ability to absorb moisture and nutrients from the air and surrounding environment. 

3. Reacting to the environment

Sometimes, increased humidity or contact with moist surfaces can trigger the growth of aerial roots. Monstera plants respond to higher humidity levels by sending out more roots in search of moisture.

Similarly, if the plant’s stems come into contact with damp surfaces for instance moss poles, they are more likely to produce aerial roots.

Also Read: Are Coffee Grounds are Good for Monstera?

Are Monstera Aerial Roots Bad?

Monstera aerial roots are not considered bad. In fact, they are a natural and normal part of the plant’s growth. These roots serve various purposes and should be seen as a fascinating feature. 

Aerial roots are not indicators of any problems with the plant’s health or well-being. They are simply a part of the plant.

Aerial roots in Monstera plants are often associated with their climbing behaviour. They help the plant attach to surfaces and provide support as it grows. These roots allow the plant to explore however, it’s not due to a lack of sunlight or inadequate conditions.

Furthermore, Monstera is not the only houseplant species that produce aerial roots. Many other popular plants such as Pothos and succulents, also develop these roots naturally.

Will Aerial Roots Grow Back?

Yes, aerial roots can grow back on a plant if it is healthy and provided with suitable conditions. Factors such as plant health, species characteristics, and environmental conditions can influence the regrowth of aerial roots.

Patience and consistent care are important for new roots to emerge. However, avoid unnecessary removal of healthy aerial roots as they serve important functions for the plant.

How to Deal with Monstera Aerial Roots?

Dealing with Monstera aerial roots is quite easy. Here are a few tips on how to handle them –

Leave them be – Unless the aerial roots are causing any issues or tangling, it’s generally best to leave them untouched. These roots serve important functions for the plant, such as support and nutrient absorption.

Trimming – In some cases, if the aerial roots are excessive or become unruly, you can trim them back. Use clean and sharp pruning shears or scissors to make a clean cut. Remember to avoid removing too many roots as they contribute to the plant’s health.

Provide support – Monstera plants naturally develop aerial roots to seek support. Consider providing a moss pole, trellis, or other support structure for your plant to climb on. This will allow the aerial roots to cling onto the support and promote healthy growth.

Also Read: Do Monstera Deliciosa like to be Root Bound?

Conclusion

Monstera aerial roots are a natural and fascinating part of the plant’s growth. While they may seem unusual or not so good, it’s essential to understand their purpose and how to deal with them effectively. Providing appropriate support structures will help guide their growth and promote a healthier plant.

Leaving the aerial roots undisturbed in your plant does not cause any harm, and in fact, it allows them to perform their natural functions without interruption.