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You can put a stick in a monstera plant by inserting a moss pole, coco coir stake, or wooden trellis a few inches away from the main stem, and then gently securing the vines to the support with soft plant ties.
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If you’ve been wondering how to put a stick in a monstera plant, this guide is going to walk you through the entire process step by step.
Putting a stick in a monstera isn’t just about aesthetics, it literally changes how your plant grows and behaves.
When you put a stick in a monstera plant the right way, you’re giving those aerial roots something to grip, and that triggers bigger, more fenestrated leaves.
In this post, we’ll cover why you need a stick, how to choose the right one, the exact way to put a stick in a monstera, and how to train your plant over time.
Let’s dig in so your monstera can climb like it does in the wild.
Why You Should Put a Stick in a Monstera Plant
Putting a stick in a monstera plant is one of the best things you can do for its long-term health and shape.
Monsteras are epiphytes in their natural habitat, meaning they climb up tree trunks and use their aerial roots to anchor themselves as they grow toward the light.
Indoors, without any support, a monstera will sprawl horizontally, and the stems can get leggy while the leaves stay smaller and less split.
When you put a stick in a monstera, you’re mimicking that natural climbing environment, and the plant responds by producing larger leaves with more dramatic holes and splits.
Here’s a closer look at why a stick isn’t just a nice accessory but a real game-changer for your monstera.
1. It Supports Heavy Growth
A mature monstera can get quite heavy, with thick stems and large leaves that easily weigh down a pot.
Without a stick, the plant often tips over or flops to one side as it grows outward.
When you put a stick in a monstera, you give those thick stems a solid structure to lean on, keeping the whole plant upright and balanced.
This support also prevents stems from snapping under their own weight, especially if you have a big, bushy monstera.
You’ll notice your monstera looks more compact and tidy when it climbs rather than falling over.
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2. It Encourages Bigger Leaves and More Fenestrations
Monsteras grow differently when they’re allowed to climb.
In the wild, they only develop those iconic holes and splits once they’re climbing up a tree and getting more light exposure higher up.
When you put a stick in a monstera, the aerial roots latch onto the support, signaling to the plant that it’s time to mature.
This maturation process leads to larger leaves with deeper cuts and more fenestrations, which is exactly what most monstera owners want.
So if your leaves are staying small and solid, a stick might be the missing piece you need.
3. It Helps Manage Directional Growth
Left unchecked, a monstera grows toward the nearest light source, and that can make it look crooked or uneven.
By putting a stick in a monstera, you can guide the plant upward in a more vertical direction.
You’ll be able to control how the stems are positioned, which makes the plant look fuller and more symmetrical.
It also makes it easier to rotate the pot and keep the growth even on all sides.
Plus, a well-staked monstera just looks more polished and intentional in any room.
How to Choose the Right Stick for Your Monstera
Not every stick works the same, so you need to pick a support that suits your monstera’s size and your aesthetic preference.
Here are the most popular options for putting a stick in a monstera plant.
1. Moss Poles
Moss poles are the most common choice for monsteras because they provide both structure and moisture.
The moss is usually kept slightly damp, and that encourages the aerial roots to dig in and attach securely.
When you put a stick in a monstera like a moss pole, the roots will actually grow into the moss over time, which gives the plant a very firm grip.
This is the best option if your monstera is already growing aerial roots or if you want maximum leaf size.
2. Coco Coir Stakes
Coco coir stakes are made from compressed coconut husk fibers, and they’re a more affordable alternative to moss poles.
They’re rougher in texture, which makes it a little easier for aerial roots to grip the surface.
However, coir stakes aren’t as good at holding moisture as moss poles, so the roots won’t attach as deeply.
Still, they work well for supporting the stem and keeping your monstera upright.
If you’re just starting out, a coco coir stake is a perfectly good way to put a stick in a monstera.
3. Wooden Stakes or Trellises
You can also use a simple wooden garden stake or a bamboo cane if you just need basic support.
These are great for younger monsteras that aren’t heavy yet, but they won’t encourage much climbing behavior.
Wooden stakes are smooth, so aerial roots won’t cling to them nearly as well as they would to moss or coir.
If you go this route, you’ll need to tie the stems more frequently to keep everything in place.
A trellis style is another option if you want your monstera to climb in a more horizontal or fan-like pattern.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Put a Stick in a Monstera
Now let’s get into the actual process of putting a stick into your monstera plant so you don’t damage the roots or the stems.
Step 1: Prep Your Stick and Pot
Before you put a stick in a monstera, water the plant lightly so the soil is a bit softer and easier to work with.
If you’re using a moss pole, soak it in water for about 15 to 20 minutes first so it’s damp and ready for the roots.
Then, push the stick gently into the pot, but make sure you’re placing it about 1 to 2 inches away from the main stem to avoid stabbing the root ball directly.
You want the stick to be firmly planted at the bottom of the pot or even into the drainage layer for extra stability.
If the stick wobbles, you can add a little extra soil around the base of the pot to hold it in place.
Step 2: Position the Stick Behind the Stem
When you put a stick in a monstera, it’s best to place it on the side of the plant where the aerial roots are growing.
This way, you can guide those roots directly onto the stick’s surface.
The stick should be vertically straight or slightly leaning back so the plant can lean into it naturally.
Make sure the stick is tall enough to support your monstera’s current height and also leave some room for future growth.
It’s always better to have a longer stick than you think you need.
Step 3: Gently Tie the Stems to the Stick
Once the stick is in place, use soft plant ties, Velcro straps, or even old pieces of pantyhose to secure the stem to the stick.
Start by tying the lowest stem first, right below a node where an aerial root is starting to form.
Then work your way up, tying each stem loosely so you’re not cutting off circulation or damaging the plant tissue.
The ties should be snug enough to hold the stem in place but loose enough that you can fit a finger between the tie and the stem.
This is a crucial part of learning how to put a stick in a monstera without hurting it.
Step 4: Guide the Aerial Roots Toward the Stick
As you’re tying the stems, gently take any aerial roots and press them against the stick.
If you’re using a moss pole, you can even tuck the roots into the moss or lightly pin them in place with small U-shaped plant pins.
Over the next few weeks, those roots will naturally grow into the moss and anchor your monstera to the stick.
If a root is too dry to bend, mist it lightly with water first so it’s more pliable.
Don’t force roots that are too short or brittle, just leave them near the stick and they’ll find their way.
Step 5: Keep Adjusting as the Plant Grows
Putting a stick in a monstera isn’t a one-time thing, you’ll need to keep adding ties and repositioning the stick as the plant grows.
Check your monstera every few weeks and add new ties higher up the stem.
If your monstera grows taller than the stick, you can extend it by attaching another stick on top or replacing it with a longer one.
Don’t worry if some aerial roots don’t attach right away, it takes time for them to grip the surface.
Just be patient and keep your ties loose and supportive.
So, How Do You Put a Stick in a Monstera Plant?
You put a stick in a monstera plant by selecting the right support, placing it securely in the pot, and then training your stems and aerial roots to attach to it over time.
Whether you use a moss pole, coco coir stake, or a simple wooden stick, the key is to give your monstera something to climb so it can grow bigger, healthier, and more beautiful.
And this Miracle-Gro All Purpose Fertilizer on Amazon can be a practical addition for you, so click the link to check it out.
Remember to keep the stick damp if you’re using moss, tie stems gently, and guide aerial roots toward the support.
Your monstera will thank you with larger leaves, stronger stems, and a much more impressive presence in your home.
So go ahead and grab a stick today, and watch your monstera reach new heights.