October 1, 2025, 8:41 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Aerial roots are simply part of the Monstera—they help stabilize the plant and absorb additional nutrients. However, many people are bothered by the long, sometimes wildly growing shoots that stick out of the pot. But can you just cut off the aerial roots without harming the plant? myHOMEBOOK gardening expert Franka Kruse-Gering offers tips on what to consider.
Can You Cut the Aerial Roots of a Monstera?
Yes, you can cut the aerial roots of a Monstera, but it should be done carefully and with the right tools. The roots serve an important function for the plant. They provide support and can also absorb water and nutrients. Removing them does not immediately harm the Monstera, as long as only individual roots are shortened or completely removed.
It is important to use only clean and sharp tools to ensure the cuts are smooth and free of germs. Healthy, robust plants can handle the procedure without any problems. However, if you prefer not to cut them at all, you can guide the aerial roots into the substrate or hang them in a glass of water—this way, they remain useful and are less visually intrusive.
Also interesting: Should You Cut the Aerial Roots of Orchids?
What to Consider When Cutting Aerial Roots
When cutting the aerial roots of a Monstera, there are several important points to keep in mind to ensure the plant remains healthy:
1. Cut Only if Absolutely Necessary
Aerial roots are beneficial and not a “flaw” of the plant. They should only be cut if they are truly bothersome, have become too long, or appear dried out and unsightly.
2. Only on Truly Healthy Plants
If you want to cut the aerial roots of your Monstera, the plant must be truly healthy. A cut stresses the plant, and only if it is really healthy and strong can it heal the resulting wound. Newly repotted plants should not be pruned. Moving to a new pot stresses the plant and drains its energy.
3. Use Sharp and Clean Tools
Cutting an aerial root creates a wound on the plant. The tool must be sharp and, above all, clean to prevent additional damage from frayed wounds or invading germs. A sharp knife is best—scissors could cause crushing.
4. The Right Cutting Point is Crucial
An aerial root of the Monstera should not be cut just anywhere. The cut should be made right at the stem of the plant, but without injuring the stem itself.
5. Don’t Forget Aftercare
After cutting, the plant should be left alone for a few days and kept in stable conditions. This means no drafts, not too much water, but also not letting it dry out. Once the cut area has dried a bit, you can treat the plant as usual and even change its location.