A good reminder that moss poles aren’t just decor — when they dry out, your Monstera’s roots can’t climb, and the droop sets in fast.
My poor Monstera had a rough go of it. When I finally stopped to really look at her, the leaves were drooping, the aerial roots were dry and crispy, and her moss pole looked like it hadn’t seen a drop of water in months. One aerial root traveled across the back of our piano in search of water. I was determined to bring her back to life — and along the way, I learned that moss poles need their own little TLC routine too.
Why Moss Poles Matter
Extendable Moss Pole
I bought this moss pole while looking for a larger pole to repot my monstera with. I love that it’s extendable with four stacking pieces and it’s easy to support my plant with the ties included.
A moss pole just decor. It gives climbing plants like Monsteras something to grab onto, encouraging larger, healthier leaves and stronger roots. But if that pole dries out completely, those aerial roots can’t attach properly — and your plant will struggle to climb.
How to Keep It Just-Right Moist
- Water from the top: The easiest way is to pour or spray water down the pole so it trickles through the moss. I use a squeeze bottle or small watering can with a narrow spout.
- Keep it evenly damp, not soggy: You want it moist enough that the moss feels cool and springy, but not dripping. If it’s sopping wet for days, it can start to smell or grow algae.
- Mist regularly: I keep a small mister next to my Monstera and give the pole a light spritz whenever I’m watering other plants. In drier homes (or during winter heat), that might mean a quick mist every 1–2 days.
- Check the base: Make sure the bottom of the pole isn’t sitting in standing water. If it’s constantly soaked, it can lead to root rot.
Signs You’re Doing It Right
Your Monstera’s aerial roots will start reaching toward the pole again, and the new leaves will come in bigger and glossier. Depending on your environment and plant, it could take anywhere from a few weeks to about three months to start seeing progress. It’s such a satisfying little victory though, and heart warming to know that your plant is happy and ready to climb again.
Now, my moss pole stays evenly damp, my Monstera is thriving. I’ll post another update when more climbing progress is made.