Monstera Roots: Everything You Need To Know

January 29, 2023 Cafe Planta Team

Monstera plants, with their iconic split leaves, have captured the hearts of plant lovers everywhere. But what about the parts you don't see—the roots? Understanding Monstera roots can be the secret to keeping these beauties happy and thriving in your home.

In this article, we'll chat about everything you need to know about Monstera roots, from their structure and growth habits to how to properly care for them. By the end, you'll have the know-how to keep your Monstera healthy and strong for years to come.

The Basics of Monstera Roots

Monstera plants, like many tropical plants, have a unique root system. These roots play a vital role in the plant's overall health, helping them absorb water and nutrients while anchoring them securely in their pot.

Interestingly enough, Monstera roots fall into two main categories: aerial roots and subterranean roots. Both types are important, but they serve different purposes. Aerial roots tend to grow above the soil, while subterranean roots grow below the surface. Each type of root contributes to the plant's well-being in its own way.

Let's break it down a bit further:

Aerial Roots: These are the roots you'll often see sprouting from the stems of your Monstera. They help the plant climb and stabilize itself in its native habitat. While they might look a bit wild, they can be quite helpful in absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air.
Subterranean Roots: These roots grow beneath the soil and are responsible for absorbing water and nutrients. They anchor the plant and are essential for its growth and health.

Why Aerial Roots Matter

Aerial roots might seem odd if you're new to the world of houseplants, but they're a natural part of Monstera's charm. In their natural habitat, these roots help the plant climb trees and other structures, getting closer to sunlight and maximizing its growth potential.

In your home, aerial roots can be just as beneficial. They allow the plant to stabilize itself as it grows, especially if you've given it a moss pole or trellis to climb. You might notice your Monstera sending out aerial roots in search of something to cling to—this is completely normal and a sign that your plant is healthy and growing.

Some practical tips for dealing with aerial roots include:

Training: If you have a climbing structure in place, gently guide the aerial roots towards it. They will naturally wrap around the structure, providing support as the plant grows.
Pruning: If the roots become too unruly, you can trim them back without harming the plant. Use clean, sharp scissors to make a clean cut.
Humidity: Aerial roots thrive in high humidity environments. Consider using a humidifier or misting your plant regularly to keep them happy.

Subterranean Roots: The Unsung Heroes

While aerial roots get a lot of attention, subterranean roots are just as important. These roots are responsible for absorbing water and nutrients from the soil, making them crucial to your Monstera's health and growth.

Here are some key things to consider when caring for the subterranean roots of your Monstera:

Soil Quality: Use a well-draining potting mix designed for tropical plants. A good mix might include peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark to mimic the natural environment of the Monstera.
Watering Routine: Water your Monstera when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, a common problem for these plants.
Pot Size: Make sure your pot has adequate drainage and is appropriately sized for your plant. A pot that's too small can constrict root growth, while one that's too large may hold too much moisture.

Repotting Your Monstera

Monstera plants grow quickly, and their roots can outgrow their pots in no time. Repotting is an essential part of keeping your Monstera healthy, as it gives the roots more space to expand and access to fresh soil.

Here's how you can successfully repot your Monstera:

Choose the Right Time: Spring and summer are ideal for repotting, as these are the active growing seasons for Monsteras.
Prepare Your Materials: Gather a new pot that's one size larger than the current one, fresh potting mix, and any tools you might need, like a trowel or gloves.
Remove the Plant: Carefully remove your Monstera from its current pot. Gently loosen the roots if they're compacted.
Inspect the Roots: Check for any signs of rot or damage. Trim away any dead or mushy roots with clean scissors.
Repot: Place the plant in the new pot, adding fresh soil around it. Ensure the plant is at the same depth as before.
Water Thoroughly: After repotting, give your Monstera a good soak to help settle the soil and encourage root growth.

Dealing with Root Rot

Root rot is a common issue that can plague Monstera plants if they're overwatered or if their potting mix doesn't drain well. This condition occurs when the roots sit in waterlogged soil for too long, leading to decay.

Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves, wilting, and a foul odor coming from the soil. If you suspect your Monstera has root rot, here's what you can do:

Remove the Plant: Take your Monstera out of its pot and gently shake off excess soil.
Inspect the Roots: Look for mushy, brown roots. Healthy roots should be white or light tan.
Trim Away Affected Roots: Use clean scissors to cut away any rotten roots. Be sure to sterilize your scissors with rubbing alcohol before and after use to prevent spreading any disease.
Repot in Fresh Soil: Use a fresh, well-draining potting mix and a clean pot. Make sure your new pot has adequate drainage holes.
Adjust Watering Schedule: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again to prevent future issues.

Encouraging Root Growth

If you're keen on helping your Monstera develop a robust root system, there are a few things you can do to encourage growth:

First, consider using a rooting hormone when repotting or propagating your plant. This can stimulate growth and help the roots establish more quickly in their new environment. Rooting hormones come in powder or liquid form and can be found at most garden centers.

Additionally, make sure your Monstera is getting enough light. While they can tolerate low light, bright, indirect sunlight is best for promoting vigorous growth. You might even consider rotating your plant every few weeks to ensure even light exposure.

Finally, ensure that you're providing the right nutrients. A balanced liquid fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season can give your Monstera the boost it needs to produce strong, healthy roots.

Propagating Monstera from Cuttings

Did you know you can grow a new Monstera from a single cutting? This is a fun and easy way to expand your collection or share your plant with friends. To get started, you'll need a healthy Monstera stem with at least one node and some aerial roots.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to propagating Monstera:

Select a Cutting: Choose a healthy stem with a node, which is where the leaf meets the stem. Aerial roots are a bonus but not necessary.
Make the Cut: Using clean, sharp scissors, cut the stem below the node. If there are any leaves below the node, remove them.
Prepare for Rooting: Place the cutting in a jar of water, ensuring the node is submerged but not the leaves. Change the water every few days.
Wait for Roots: Keep the cutting in a bright spot but out of direct sunlight. In a few weeks, you should see roots developing.
Pot the Cutting: Once the roots are a few inches long, pot the cutting in a small pot with fresh soil. Water it thoroughly and place it back in a bright spot.

Propagation can be a rewarding experience, and who knows? You might find yourself with more Monsteras than you know what to do with!

Maintaining Healthy Roots with Proper Care

Maintaining healthy roots is all about balance. While it's important to water your Monstera regularly, it's equally crucial to avoid overwatering. Letting the top inch of soil dry out between waterings is a good rule of thumb.

Humidity is another factor to consider. Monsteras love a humid environment, so if your home is on the drier side, consider adding a humidifier or placing a tray of water near your plant to increase moisture levels.

Nutrient-wise, a balanced fertilizer applied during the growing season can keep your Monstera's roots robust and healthy. Just be sure to follow the instructions on your fertilizer to avoid overfeeding, which can harm the plant.

Common Root Problems and Solutions

Even with the best care, Monstera roots can encounter some issues. Here are a few common problems and how to tackle them:

Root Bound: If your Monstera is root bound, you'll notice roots growing out of the drainage holes or circling the pot. The solution? Repot in a larger container to give the roots more space.
Pests: Occasionally, pests like fungus gnats can affect the roots. Ensure you're not overwatering, and consider using a natural pest control method, like neem oil.
Nutrient Deficiency: Yellowing leaves can be a sign of nutrient deficiency. Adjusting your fertilizing routine can often resolve this issue.

Keeping an eye out for these problems and responding promptly can prevent bigger issues down the road.

Final Thoughts

Monstera roots are fascinating and essential parts of the plant, playing a crucial role in its health and growth. By understanding and caring for both aerial and subterranean roots, you can ensure your Monstera thrives and continues to be a stunning addition to your home.

At Cafe Planta, we're here to support you on your plant journey. Whether you're looking for new plant additions, care accessories, or just some plant-themed apparel to show off your green thumb, we've got you covered. Feel free to reach out via email or connect with us on Instagram if you have any questions or just want to share your plant stories. We believe in the power of plants to bring people together and connect us with nature and each other. Happy planting!

Back to blog