Taming the Monstera

I’ve been frequently asked about how I support my monstera so here are some details along with affiliate links to the products I’m using and enjoying.  Purchasing through these links goes to support this blog 🙂

Do I need to train my Monstera deliciosa?

Yes!  The growth pattern of the Monstera deliciosa is much like a pothos – vines that just keep getting longer.  For pothos, because of its smaller overall size, they can be left to hang off the side of the pot.  Since the monstera’s natural size is much larger, a few vines hanging out of the pot would quickly fill an entire room!  Therefore, you should affix the vines to a sturdy trellis so they can grow upwards.

What about using a moss pole?

The idea of the moss pole is to provide a medium onto which the aerial roots can grip, just like they do in the wild.  The only problem with trying to accomplish this indoors is that you need to keep the moss moist at all times – this is not recommended as the air doesn’t move as much as it does outside or in a nursery.  Stale air and constantly moist conditions are breeding grounds for mould/unwanted bacteria.

Even if you manage to keep the air fresh, a monstera’s vine can be quite heavy.  A single post will not be as sturdy as a multi-post trellis.
 

The Metal Trellis

The method I use for training my monstera vines is affixing them against a sturdy metal trellis like the Panacea Garden Ladder.  The triangular profile makes it much sturdier than a flat, fence-like design.Amazon Link: Panacea Garden Plant Support Ladder, Red

Soft Rubber Ties

Although the monstera vine is quite tough, I find that twine or wires will eventually dig into the plant’s flesh.  That’s why I use these Soft Rubber Ties – they’re strong, won’t slip once you’ve twisted them against each other, and won’t mar the plant.  They can be easily cut to whatever length you need.Amazon Link: Soft Rubber Tie (Brown)Amazon Link: Soft Rubber Tie (Light Green)

When your monstera is young, fresh from the nursery, the vines probably won’t be hanging off the side of the pot for a few months.  Given good light and watering accordingly, those vines will seem to crawl outwards – this is the time to get them onto a trellis.

Click here for a video of me installing the trellis

I hope this has been helpful for all you Monstera deliciosa parents out there.  If you haven’t already, feel free to read the full story of how I acquired and cared for my monstera.

Tired of vague tips and tricks for houseplants? I’ve put together an online course that will help you get real enjoyment from houseplant ownership:

Essentials of Houseplant Enjoyment

Other Trellises:

Luster Leaf Tomato Tower Obelisk

Achla Designs FT-20 Fleur-De-Lis, 58-in Wrought Iron Garden Stake Trellis, H, Black