Monstera aerial roots are normal, and you usually have three good options: leave them alone, guide them to a support, or trim them if you don’t like the look. They help the plant climb, and they can also root into soil if they reach it.

Quick Scoop

  • Best low-effort option: let them grow naturally. A Monstera does not need aerial roots removed to stay healthy.
  • Best for a fuller, upright plant: train the roots onto a moss pole, trellis, or stake so the plant has something to climb.
  • Best if they bother you visually: trim them with sharp, sterilized scissors or shears , cutting close to the stem but not into it.

What to avoid

  • Don’t yank or tear them off, because that can wound the plant and invite infection.
  • Don’t keep the soil soggy if you bury aerial roots in the pot; overly wet soil can encourage rot.
  • Don’t worry if they get long; that’s a normal part of Monstera growth.

Simple rule of thumb

If you want a tidy look , trim them. If you want a bigger climbing plant , give them support. If you want the least fuss , just leave them alone.

If you want, I can also give you a 1-minute care guide for Monstera aerial roots in plain language.