Find out about Things that Happen When You Stop Using a Moss Pole on Monstera —here’s what to expect when support is gone.
The big, split leaves of the Monstera make them a perfect fit for indoor aesthetics. Their climbing nature adds a vibrant hue to any dull place in your home. Using moss poles for Monstera is a common practice, as they help the plant grow upright and maintain a neat appearance. So, before pulling out your moss pole, know what will happen to your Monstera. Here, we have listed all the possible scenarios that could occur with your Monstera.
Things that Happen When You Stop Using a Moss Pole on Monstera
1. Drooping and Leaning Habit
Without a spine, you can’t stand or sit straight. Monstera also starts to lean, droop, or trail over the edges of the pot when the moss pole is removed. The plant will be alright, but it will forget climbing, and thus take up more space, and the big leaves will make the area look unpleasant. If you don’t like the wild look, this might be something to consider.
2. Weaker Stems
Monstera has large, heavy leaves, and without the support of a moss pole, the stems will bend, weaken, and may break over time if not handled carefully.
3. Top-Heavy Leaves
The large Monstera plant, which is approximately more than 6 meters tall, has heavier tops and big leaves. The stems, especially without support, may not be able to handle the weight, resulting in them breaking or snapping. If you prefer not to use moss poles, you can opt for an alternative form of support, such as stakes or wall trellises.
4. Dried and Messy Roots
The long, stringy aerial roots of Monstera climb up the moss pole and help the plant grow taller. Without support, the dried-out roots will dangle all over the surface and look untidy. You will need to take care of the roots by trimming or tucking them back into the plant in intervals so the surroundings look clean.
5. Vine Resemblance
Want this big-leafed plant trailing over your wall, or do you want a wild forest feel at your home? Then you can remove the moss pole and let it trail like a vine. This will look attractive in hanging baskets or when placed on a shelf where the stems can drape down.
6. Water with care
The aerial roots of Monstera rely on the moss pole for moisture, and without it, the roots are dependent on soil for water. So, when watering, check the soil more often and ensure the plant isn’t too dry, especially if the aerial roots are no longer helping with moisture.
7. Pruning in Intervals
Without the support of the moss pole, you need to be the support guide of Monstera and help them grow in the desired shape. For that, you need to prune the plant in intervals and maintain its shape by stopping it from becoming too big or unruly.
Tip- For pruning, always sterilize your pruning shears by rubbing 70 % alcohol before using them, as it might lead to infection of the plant.
8. Sideways Growth
Monstera plants will crawl all over your floor or shelf, taking up more space without support, as they are too heavy. You may like the sideways growth of them as it gives a wild and bushy look, but it’s not practical for smaller homes.
