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Monstera root: aerial roots
A guest from the southern tropics who helps to create warmth and coziness in an apartment is a monstera. The root of the plant has not only the underground shape we are accustomed to, but also fancifully wriggling aerial root appendages. In order for the monstera to grow healthy and lush, the owner needs to know some rules for caring for aerial roots.
Aerial roots of monstera: their role in plant development
In the wild, the outer roots provide an additional source of moisture, which the plant can obtain from the vapor-saturated tropical environment. Reaching the ground, air appendages tend to take root in the soil, thereby contributing to increased nutrition for the monstera, which makes it stronger and more resilient.
Aerial roots of monstera serve as additional nutrition
Monstera is a very moisture-loving plant, so you need to prevent the soil from drying out. But you should know that excessive watering will also negatively affect its condition – the roots may begin to rot
Monstera belongs to the species of lianas and, in favorable conditions, can reach a length of 20 m. For some types of monstera, aerial roots serve as a support. As they grow, they become lignified and tough, which allows the plant to become more resilient. Florists use air layers to propagate monstera. To obtain a positive result, the root and leaf must be on the layer. In this case, the layering can be planted directly into the soil, it will quickly take root.
Do’s and Don’ts with Monstera Aerial Roots
There are several options for caring for the aerial root appendages of monstera. The most common ones are:
- tying up aerial roots along the trunk towards the soil so that they take root in the tub;
- place additional containers with earth or water next to the plant and direct the roots into them;
- purchase special props wrapped in natural palm fiber, fill them with earth and place the roots inside.
Regularly moisturizing the roots is an essential part of caring for your monster. Experts do not recommend cutting off the aerial part of the plant roots. In this case, it may begin to dry, and the leaves will turn yellow.
Aerial roots are of great importance in the life of a plant, therefore, in no case should they be left unattended. The rest of the monstera is quite unpretentious, and following these simple rules will help you grow a luxurious southern beauty at home.