In the course of growth, Monstera develop aerial roots that become noticeably longer. If the root strands are perceived as disturbing, the question of a pruning arises. You can find out here how to properly deal with aerial roots on your window leaf.

The aerial roots of the Monstera should not be cut off if possible

Why do aerial roots grow on the window leaf?

Monstera species thrive in the tropics as evergreen climbers. With increasing size, the earth roots no longer cover the need for water and nutrients. For this reason, after some time, additional aerial roots sprout between the leaf axils. These serve as a supply line and attachment organ in equal measure, so that they play a key role in growth.

Cutting only allowed in exceptional cases

In view of their function as lifelines, the aerial roots should not be removed. As long as a root strand is thriving and vital, you weaken the constitution of a Monstera if you apply the scissors here. An exception to the rule is when an aerial root tries to anchor itself in the ground behind the baseboards or attacks neighboring indoor plants. Furthermore, cutting is permitted when a root has completely dried up and died.

Please use a sharp knife disinfected with alcohol for the cut. Cut off the affected aerial root directly at the shoot axis. Ideally, dab the cut with some rock flour ($15) or charcoal ash to regulate the flow of sap.

Prevention is better than cutting - Here's how

Extremely long aerial roots signal that the cultivation of a Monstera is not proceeding in a regular way. If your window leaf lacks water, nutrients or a trellis, it sends out its roots in a desperate search for it. How to effectively prevent this behavior:

  • Water the substrate regularly with soft water
  • Mist the leaves and aerial roots with water every 2 to 3 days
  • Fertilize every 2 weeks in summer and every 4 to 6 weeks in winter
  • Offer a climbing aid to the window leaf in proportion to the growth

If a window leaf is cared for with species-appropriate care, it sees no reason for the growth of unnaturally long aerial roots.

tips

Do not reach for the scissors on the window leaf without first putting on gloves. As an arum family, all Monstera species contain a poisonous plant sap. Sensitive people have to pay for mere skin contact with unpleasant irritation.

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