When it comes to keeping a cheese plant, also known as a monstera, upright, there are a few key techniques that can help you achieve success. One popular method is to provide support for the plant by using a moss pole. Moss poles are a great way to give your monstera something to grow on and help it stay vertical.
To create a moss pole, you will need a few supplies. First, you’ll need a sturdy pole made of materials such as wood or PVC pipe. The length of the pole will depend on the size of your monstera and how tall you want it to grow. Next, you’ll need some sphagnum moss, which can be found at most garden centers or online. Lastly, you’ll need some twine or plant ties to secure the moss to the pole.
To start, soak the sphagnum moss in water until it becomes fully hydrated. Then, take handfuls of the moss and wrap it around the pole, starting at the bottom and working your way up. Make sure to firmly press the moss onto the pole as you go to ensure it stays in place. Once the entire pole is covered in moss, secure it with twine or plant ties, making sure it is tight enough to hold the moss in place.
Now that you have your moss pole ready, it’s time to introduce it to your monstera. Gently guide the aerial roots of the plant towards the moss pole, allowing them to come into contact with the moss. The aerial roots will naturally attach themselves to the moss and begin to climb upward. As the monstera grows, continue to guide the new foliage towards the pole to ensure it stays supported and upright.
In addition to using a moss pole, there are a few other tips you can follow to help keep your monstera upright. First, make sure your plant is receiving adequate light. Monstera plants thrive in bright, indirect light, so placing it near a sunny window or providing supplemental grow lights can help promote upward growth.
Next, be mindful of watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and weakened stems, which can cause your monstera to droop. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings and ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogged roots.
Regular pruning can also help promote upward growth and prevent your monstera from becoming too top-heavy. Trim back any leggy or unruly vines to encourage new growth and maintain a more compact and upright shape.
Lastly, consider the overall health of your plant. Providing a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can help give your monstera the nutrients it needs to thrive and grow upward. Regularly inspect your plant for any signs of pests or disease, and take appropriate action if necessary.
By providing a moss pole for support, ensuring proper lighting and watering, pruning as needed, and maintaining overall plant health, you can help keep your monstera upright and encourage upward growth. These techniques have been tried and tested by many plant parents, including myself, and have proven to be effective in keeping cheese plants healthy and thriving.
