Choosing the best way to grow your plants can sometimes be easier said than done. Do you have a monstera plant you want to train vertically but don't know whether a trellis or moss pole will work better? Does monstera respond well to upward growth?
Well, we've done extensive research and have the answers for you!
We recommend training your monstera using a trellis between a trellis and a moss pole. Besides being easier for your plant to crawl up, a trellis also looks a bit fancier in a landscape.
However, a moss pole could do the trick if you aren't worried about aesthetics and want your monstera to grow wilder. This all comes down to your preference and garden.
As we begin, we will cover all things monstera and discuss the best way to grow one vertically. Whether you have this plant in your yard, want to grow one for the first time, or have other related questions, you're at the right place. With that said, let's dive in!
Is A Trellis Or A Moss Pole Better For Monstera?
For those wondering whether using a moss pole or trellis works better for a monstera, this depends on your garden. As we said, either of these structures will train your plant to grow vertically.
However, from an aesthetic standpoint, a trellis takes the crown. Furthermore, many experts find that monstera takes well to trellis structures, often having an easier time climbing them than moss poles.
In addition, a trellis takes up less space in a pot or the ground, which makes transplanting easier. Of course, you can still successfully do these things with a moss pole: it will just be a little harder.
Regardless, try and start your monstera young on a vertical structure to train it to continue growing that way through maturity. It's easier to teach a new plant that trick.
Can Monstera Grow On A Trellis?
Yes! Although this concept may seem out of reach, you can usually grow monstera on a trellis. Generally, you want to place your structure into the ground near your plant, wrapping its foliage around the base.
The key is encouraging your monstera to grow upwards versus sprawling more to the sides. Like any plant, a trellis will be an easy transition to vertical growing for monstera.
You can also use a trellis for potted monstera, which is perfect for anyone with a planter.
Outdoor Garden Trellis
This trellis comes in a two-pack, supports vines and shrubs, works for potted plants, is made with rust-proof iron, has a rounded design, and is easy to build.
Follow this link to see it on Amazon.
Should I Use A Moss Pole For Monstera?
You can switch to a moss pole if you don't want to use a trellis. As we covered, moss poles tend to be more challenging for monstera to cling to, but this won't be an issue if you help.
Typically, moss poles allow your monstera to take on a more wild look, which can work nicely in specific landscapes. According to many garden experts, using a moss pole for monstera indoors can be beneficial.
Furthermore, monstera on a moss pole usually has larger leaves with more fenestrations than ones you keep untrained. So, if you want your plant to get big, we recommend an indoor moss pole.
Again, you can always do the same thing with a trellis, although that might look weird inside versus on your patio. This is another aesthetic dilemma, so structurally, either will do.
Do You Need To Keep A Moss Pole Wet?
Yes. It is a good practice to keep a moss pole well watered. Unlike having your monstera grow straight from the soil, a moss pole essentially becomes its lifeline for nutrients and water.
Therefore, you want to give your pole a spritz every couple of days to keep your monstera healthy. Since a moss pole works to mimic the texture of moist, mossy bark, you want to create that same environment.
As we mentioned, growing monstera on a moss pole will give your plant a wilder appearance, which makes sense, all things considered.
Do Moss Poles Get Moldy?
Since your moss pole should stay moist for most of its time, mold can form. Unfortunately, it is common for a bit of molding to occur on a moss pole if you aren't checking it.
On the other hand, experts reinstate that mold won't typically happen if you regularly clean down your moss pole, so don't panic yet.
An easy way would be to pour clean water down your moss pole to keep it clear of mold spores. You can also apply a mixture of baking soda and soapy water and douse your pole with it, so there are ways to fix this issue.
Regardless, we recommend addressing mold problems the second you see them, as this can quickly become a health issue for you. Even if your plant doesn't mind the mold at first, your lungs will.
Duspro 42-Inch-Tall Moss Pole
This moss pole is 42 inches tall, is made specifically for monstera, has a bendable stake, is made with 100% forest moss, should be indoors, and promises to be sturdy for your plants.
Check out this moss pole on Amazon.
Do You Have To Train A Monstera?
If you want your monstera plant to grow vertically, you need to train it. Whether you prefer using a trellis or moss pole for your monstera, one will be required to get it growing tall and strong.
Considering this species tends to grow as a ground cover naturally, monstera won't stand upright on their own. Therefore, growing one vertically inside or outdoors will take some precise training.
One downside is that monstera can take a while to adapt to a vertical growth pattern. If you start this process while your plant is young, there's a better chance you can adjust it quicker.
On the other hand, if your monstera is pretty expansive as a ground cover, you might be able to retrain its branches to crawl up a trellis or moss pole by manually positioning them that way.
Should I Hang Or Climb Monsteras?
For anyone stumped on whether to hang or climb their monstera, we recommend climbing. As we said above, monstera responds well to vertical growing or "climbing," meaning you can usually do this easily.
However, hanging a monstera won't always be as seamless and can cause your plant to grow incorrectly. According to experts, monstera are climbers rather than trailers.
Therefore, you don't want to place one in a hanging basket. Instead, you want to grow your monstera using a moss pole, trellis, stake in the ground, or a planter.
Where Is The Best Place To Grow Monstera?
The best location for monstera is somewhere with a bit of bright sunlight throughout the morning and afternoon. This species loves dappled shade, getting most of its light in the morning.
Furthermore, many people grow monstera inside, so you need to ensure your plant is in a southern, western, or eastern-facing window. With that said, keep your plant a foot away from the window to prevent sunburn during hotter temperatures/seasons.
Regarding the soil, monstera prefers a nutrient-rich mixture of peat and compost, which is well-drained. Additionally, your plant will do well with coco fiber in its dirt, which is a bit more sustainable compared to peat.
One of the main factors you want to focus on with monstera is soil drainage. If you use a moss pole, adequate ground drainage is essential to your plant's health.
If your monstera's soil can't move water, there's a higher risk of root rot and waterlogging.
Miracle-Gro Tropical Potting Mix
This tropical plant potting mix is perfect for monstera, has good drainage, works for indoor and outdoor containers, is packed with nutrients, feeds your plants for up to six months, and comes in a six-quart bag.
Follow this link to view it on Amazon.
Is Monstera Easy To Grow?
Yes, growing and managing a monstera plant should be pretty easy. Besides this species being great for indoor growing, monstera can adapt to almost any environment.
Whether you train one vertically in your apartment or keep it as a ground cover outside, a monstera should become expansive without much TLC from you.
One interesting attribute of monstera is that it thrives on neglect. As we said, this plant tends to have a wilder appearance, which you can encourage using a moss pole.
However, you can also train monstera to take on a more manicured look using a trellis or wood stake, so this species has range. Regardless, we recommend giving your plant light, well-draining soil, and enough space to grow and mature.
How Long Does Monstera Live?
Even though this plant isn't always considered long-living, in ideal conditions, a monstera can live up to 40 years. Houseplant Authority calls monstera an 'heirloom plant,' alluding to their longer lifespan.
With that said, the lifetime of monstera dramatically depends on its conditions. Therefore, give your plant plenty of light, well-draining soil, structure, and even some neglect.
To Finish It Up
Whether you have monstera in your home/garden or want to purchase one, it's always good to have a plan. From what we found, you can grow monstera vertically using a trellis or moss pole, although we recommend a trellis between the two.
Furthermore, monstera should be somewhat easy to train vertically if you start it young, so that's something to remember. The key is structure and a sturdy base for your plant.
It's also essential to give your monster enough sunlight and light soil, which can help keep it healthy and living for decades to come.
Made it this far? Check out some of our other garden articles below!
How Much Do Monstera Plants Cost? [Inc. Rare Varieties]
Should I Cut The Dead Leaves Off My Monstera? [Inc. When And How To]