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Learn How to add a Monstera support pole that can transform your Swiss cheese plant from sprawling to spectacular!
Ever noticed your Monstera looking a bit unruly? A support pole is the perfect solution to help your plant grow upright and show off those iconic leaves.
Let’s dive into how you can easily add one to your Monstera and take your plant game to new heights!
Adding a Monstera Support Pole: Easy Swiss Cheese Plant Tips
Well howdy, in this video I’ve added my moss pole and I’ve re-potted this Monstera deliciosa into a 5-gallon pot.
Taking a closer look at it this has about a 10-inch piece of 3/4 quarter inch pipe that goes down to the bottom of the pot that you can’t see because it is buried.
The wood stake on the bottom of the support fits exactly into it and the bottom of the coco coir post is buried a few inches below the soil surface.
I wanted to make sure this was going to be really stable so I think you can see I’ve zip tied the stake to the pot.
Also, I received some green Teflon tape with the kit, so I’ve used that to move the plant to the pole.
Monstera Support Pole Key Takeaways
Monstera support pole installation involves selecting a sturdy pole, like a moss or coco coir pole, and securing it in the pot.
Gently tie the Monstera’s stems to the pole using plant ties or soft twine.
Keep the pole moist to encourage aerial root growth.
This supports the plant’s natural climbing habit and promotes healthier, more compact growth.
When it comes to Monstera support poles, you’ve got options! The most popular choices are:
Moss poles: These are covered in sphagnum moss, which retains moisture and mimics the plant’s natural habitat. Coco coir poles: Made from coconut fiber, these are eco-friendly and great for aerial root development. Bamboo stakes: A simple, natural option that works well for younger plants.
In our video, we used a coco coir pole with a PVC pipe core for extra stability. This combo provides both strength and moisture-retaining properties that Monsteras love. Below is the self-watering support pole I used:
Before adding your support pole, it’s a good idea to repot your Monstera if it’s outgrown its current container. Here’s what we did:
Choose a larger pot (we went with a 5-gallon size). Carefully removed the Monstera from its old pot. Placed the support pole in the center of the new pot.
Ours is on the edge because placing it in the center would have damaged the plant.
Add fresh potting mix around the pole and plant. We used coco coir with 25% chunky perlite
Secure the Support Pole. We zip-tied it to the side of the pot.
Stability is key when it comes to Monstera support poles.
To ensure our pole stayed put, we:
Used a pole with an added 3/4 inch pipe core that reached the bottom of the pot.
Zip-tied the pole to the pot for extra security.
Made sure the pole was firmly planted in the soil.
This setup provides a sturdy base for your Monstera to climb and grow on.
Attaching Your Monstera to the Pole
Now for the fun part – helping your Monstera cozy up to its new support! Here’s how:
Use plant-safe ties or soft twine to gently secure the main stems to the pole.
We used green Teflon tape that came with our kit – it’s gentle on the plant and blends in nicely.
Don’t tie too tightly – allow some room for growth and movement.
Start with the larger, older stems near the base of the plant.
Maintaining Your Monstera and Support Pole
To keep your Monstera happy and encourage it to climb:
Keep the pole moist: Use the funnel provided to pour water down the pole, keeping the coco coir damp. Guide new growth: As new leaves and stems emerge, gently tie them to the pole. Water and fertilize regularly: We mixed our starter fertilizer to about 700 parts per million. For optimal nutrition you may want to increase this to 1000-1200 ppms as the plant gets more established.
Remember, Monsteras develop aerial roots that will eventually attach to the pole on their own, creating a natural, jungle-like appearance!
Monstera Support Pole FAQs
Got questions about Monstera support poles? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries plant parents have when it comes to helping their Swiss cheese plants reach new heights:
Q: When should I add a support pole to my Monstera?
A: It’s best to add a support pole when your Monstera is young or showing signs of leaning or sprawling. This helps train the plant to grow upright from an early stage.
Q: Can I use a regular stake or trellis instead of a moss or coco coir pole?
A: While a regular stake or trellis can provide support, moss and coco coir poles offer additional benefits. They retain moisture and mimic the plant’s natural habitat, encouraging healthier growth and aerial root development.
Q: How often should I water the support pole?
A: Aim to keep the pole consistently moist but not soaking wet. In most home environments, watering the pole once or twice a week should suffice. Adjust based on your home’s humidity and temperature.
Q: Will my Monstera’s aerial roots damage the support pole?
A: Not at all! The aerial roots attaching to the pole is a natural and beneficial process. It helps stabilize the plant and can even provide additional nutrients as the roots grow into the pole material.
Q: Can I make my own Monstera support pole?
A: Absolutely! DIY enthusiasts can create their own poles using materials like PVC pipe wrapped in coco coir or sphagnum moss. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to support your plant as it grows.
Adding a Monstera Support Pole Conclusion
Adding a Monstera support pole is a game-changer for your Swiss cheese plant.
Not only does it provide the structural support these natural climbers crave, but it also encourages healthier growth and a more impressive display of those iconic split leaves.
With the right pole, a bit of patience, and some tender loving care, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning vertical jungle in your own home.
Choose a sturdy, moisture-retaining support pole for your Monstera
Secure the pole firmly in the pot when repotting
Gently tie stems to the pole, allowing room for growth
Keep the pole moist to encourage aerial root development
Regularly guide new growth to the pole for a compact, upright plant
Final Thoughts
So anyway, this has been my Monstera Deliciosa repotted with a cocoa coir support pole. I will be tying branches to as, as they come along. They do have The ability to form aerial roots which will dig into this pole.
Monstera plants are easy to grow and if you like big-leafed plants you will love the Swiss Cheese plant.
It’s fast-growing, easy to care for, and thrives in bright indirect light. Monstera deliciosa can add a personal jungle vibe to your urban environment.
So that’s it for this show. I hope you’re all doing well. Take good care of yourselves and happy gardening. Happy Monstera growing!
