How to Make Monstera Deliciosa Grow Upright
Monstera Deliciosa, as a popular ornamental leaf plant, is favored by gardening enthusiasts for its unique leaf shape. However, during the maintenance process, issues such as stem bending and lodging often arise, affecting the overall ornamental value. This article will systematically analyze the core cultivation techniques for the upright growth of Monstera Deliciosa from three dimensions: the construction of a support system, physical shaping techniques, and root management.
Constructing a Support System for Monstera Deliciosa
Wall-Assisted Growth Method
Utilizing the natural climbing characteristics of Monstera Deliciosa, move the potted plant to a distance of 5-8 centimeters from the wall, allowing the aerial roots to adhere and form a natural support. It is recommended to rotate the pot 180° weekly to ensure even light exposure and avoid one-sided stretching.
Optimal Solution for Pole Support
Choose a sphagnum moss column or coconut husk column with a diameter of 3-5 cm as the support, and use horticultural ties to secure the main stem in sections. Note to set a fixation point every 30 cm, leaving 1 cm of growth space for the ties.
Key Physical Shaping Techniques
Golden Period for New Bud Shaping
When the new buds extend to 8-12 cm, use waxed cotton rope for a 45° oblique pull shaping. It is recommended to operate before 10 a.m. daily, as cell activity is highest at this time, reducing mechanical damage.
Gradual Shaping Strategy
Adopt a segmented tying method, adding a tie point every 15 cm of growth, combined with a weekly 5° angle adjustment. Avoid direct contact with the stem using wire, and use silicone tubing as a buffer layer.
Root Management and Control
Deep Stem Burial Technique
When repotting, bury the stem base to twice or three times its original position, using a coarse-grained matrix (akadama soil: bark = 3:1) to promote the development of aerial roots. Retain 3-5 main roots and cut off the rest to stimulate upright growth.
Technique for Reviving Through Division
The pruned aerial roots can be planted in a mixture of vermiculite and perlite, maintaining 85% air humidity and a 20-25°C environment to cultivate new plants. The new plants usually have better upright growth than the parent plant.
By combining the construction of a support system, gradual physical shaping, and root management, along with regular pot rotation, moderate water control (keeping the matrix moisture content at 40%-60%), and other cultivation details, the upright growth effect of Monstera Deliciosa can be significantly improved. It is recommended to check the stability of the support structure every quarter, adjust the tying position in a timely manner, and keep Monstera Deliciosa always elegant and upright.