Monstera Aerial Roots: Trim Them or Leave Them? (2026 US Guide)

Those long brown ropes growing out of your monstera stems are aerial roots — and what to do with them is the most-asked question in U.S. monstera communities. Short answer: usually leave them. Here's the nuanced version.

What Aerial Roots Actually Do

Aerial roots help monsteras climb trees in the wild, absorbing moisture from rainforest air. Indoors they're vestigial but functional — they can still uptake humidity, and they help anchor the plant if you provide a moss pole.

When to Leave Them

  • Plant is healthy and growing.
  • You have a moss pole or trellis they can attach to.
  • Aesthetic-wise, you don't mind the look.
  • The roots aren't damaged or rotting.

When to Trim

  • The root is dead (brown, brittle, shriveled).
  • It's poking into the wall or floor where you can't accommodate it.
  • It's grown so long it's destabilizing the plant.

Trim with sterilized scissors, cut 1 inch from the stem. The plant will not be harmed.

Frequently asked questions

Will my monstera die if I cut all the aerial roots?

No. Monstera survives fine without them — they're not the primary root system. But for vigorous indoor growth and climbing behavior, keeping them is better.

Can I put aerial roots in water?

Yes, and many U.S. growers do exactly this — guide the aerial root into a small jar of water beside the pot. The plant absorbs water and humidity that way.

Sources and references

Get personalized help with your plant

One plant diagnosis and one room design are included in the free trial. Account and checkout required; your selected subscription renews unless canceled.

Start my free trial