Adding a moss pole to a plant with aerial roots changes the aspect dramatically. Monsteras are naturally climbing plants and the higher they grow, the leaves and fenestrations get exponentially bigger. 

Only recently I fully embraced moss poles. I had a failed attempt last season with a Monstera Siltepecana, but the DIY pole wasn’t meant for extension and I had to start over, check the story here.

Since my Siltepecana was a success on a proper moss pole, my next project: Adansonii. I had a rather odd looking pot, with two vines a bit leggy, about 1.3m long and a smaller vine. My intention was to add a moss pole and to trim them a bit. 

To document this moss training process, I even created a time-lapse video. Check my TikTok account for to see it.

@greenmonstera.com

How to train a Monstera Adansonii on a moss pole #monsteraadansonii #mosspole #planttraining #plantpropagation #plantgrowth #planttip #planttutorial #planthack #DIYplant #greenthumb #urbanjungle #jungalowstyle #greenmonstera

? Flight of the Bumblebee – Emiliano Bucci

After taking them out, I had to rethink my project on spot. I only moved the smaller one in a different pot with a cute little pole. 

Now, I’m a big advocate for moss poles when it comes to supporting aerial roots. Those coir-based options just don’t seem to cut it – literally! The aerial roots struggle to grab onto the rough surface, hindering their natural climbing behaviour.

On an actual moss pole the aerial roots can have a soft, inviting surface to attach themselves to, encouraging that iconic Monstera climb. (Plus, it just looks way more aesthetically pleasing, right?)

I kept the other two vines in the same pot, with a bit more space for the roots. I will cut them down in spring to make a bushier trailing plant. While they might appear a bit leggy right now, I’ve made a conscious decision to leave them be. During winter, propagation projects can be a bit tricky, I just don’t want to tempt fate.

In the meantime, I’ll be keeping a close eye on my newly separated vine as it settles into its new moss pole paradise. On long term, I will have two differently fashioned Monsteras and will be able to observe first hand two growth patterns. 

I already published a care guide for Monstera Adansonii at the end if this article: Monstera Magic: Win One of These Beauties & Learn How to Care for Them! Therefore, here are some tips on how to care for a moss pole. 

Moss Pole Care:

 * Keep the moss pole moist but not soggy. Mist it regularly.

 *Make sure the pole is not too wet, as this invites root rot.

* As the aerial roots grow, gently guide them onto the moss pole.