This article, “Aerial Root vs. Monstera Node,” will cover some key differences between monstera node and aerial root. Read on to discover:
- An overview of monstera node and aerial root.
- The common differences between the two.
- Propagation guidelines for first-time buyers.
- Other important tips related to nodes and roots.
What is a Monstera Node?
A node is the part of a plant where all new growth (stems, leaves, and aerial roots) originates. Similarly, monstera nodes are tiny, fleshy bumps that develop along the monstera stem.
Monstera nodes are basically just an integral part of the monstera plant, which helps further the growth. In addition, these nodes are beneficial in propagating monstera to grow new ones.
The typical length of a node cutting is between three and four inches, with a single node in the center of the piece. Since Monsteras are vining plants, they tend to have lots of nodes.
Since the nodes are the growth point in any plant (a place where the growth begins), you can easily direct the maturation of the monstera plants based on how the node is utilized.
For instance, prune above the node to stimulate new growth of the monstera plant. On the other hand, if you want to propagate a Monstera stem, cut below the node of the mother plant.
What is a Monstera Aerial Root?
An aerial root is basically a root that originates on a plant from the position above the surface of the soil or water, such as from a stem. In simple words, they’re roots above the ground.
Plants of the genus Monstera Deliciosa seen in nature use their aerial roots to attach themselves to nearby trees’ trunks for support and to climb higher to get more light.
Additionally, aerial roots also assist the plant in absorbing extra nutrients and moisture from the surrounding air. This, in turn, stimulates the monstera plants’ overall growth.
The aerial roots of monsteras have two primary purposes: to assist the plant in securing itself to a support such as a tree or moss pole and to draw moisture from the surrounding air.
Aerial roots tend to provide support for vining plants; thus, there is no reason to damage them. However, if the appearance of the roots is not to your liking, you may trim them back.
Monstera Node vs. Monstera Aerial Root — An Overview
As you know, these two components of the monstera (monstera node and monstera aerial root) are quite vital; let’s take a look at some of the ways in which they vary.
Appearance
Appearance is one of the main differentiating factors between the two. The nodes are green-colored tiny bumps, while aerial roots are small white threads that grow out of the nodes.
Length
Regarding length, nodes are quite small (not more than tiny little bumps). On the other hand, since aerial roots’ purpose is to support the climbing, their length extends over time.
Location
Since plants cannot produce aerial roots or new leaves without nodes, they can be found all along the stem. Meanwhile, aerial roots grow out of the nodes and are found near them only.
Function
The function of nodes revolves around the plant’s growth since they’re necessary for survival; however, you can say the same about aerial roots. Plants can easily thrive without them.
Care
Regarding the care requirements, nodes don’t need special care since they’re part of the stem and are damage-resistant. In contrast, aerial roots are quite fragile and can break off easily.
Propagation
Propagating monstera without a node is simply impossible; nodes are a necessity. In contrast, aerial roots don’t have buds or leaves, so they can’t be used for propagating monstera.
Growth
Nodes are considered static since they do not expand or shift in place over time. On the flip side, the aerial roots expand as time passes, which is exactly what they are intended to do.
Weather Response
Being an essential component of the plant, nodes are very reliable, but aerial roots are totally exposed. If you don’t fertilize or water the plant regularly, the roots will eventually die.
Pruning Effect
Pruning does not affect the plant’s nodes but may affect the aerial roots. Don’t worry; even though they seem to be damaged after being pruned, they will eventually grow back.
Overwatering
When it comes to the nodes, root rot, often caused by overwatering, does not hurt them. On the contrary, aerial roots are more likely to be damaged and exhibit signs of stress sooner.
So, these are some of the most significant distinctions that can be made between a node and an aerial root. If we missed something, don’t forget to remind us in the comments below.
Node vs. Aerial Roots — Frequently Asked Questions
We’re not done yet! We’ve taken the time to answer some questions about propagating monstera, monstera nodes, and aerial roots.
Is a Node the Same As An Aerial Root in a Monstera Plant?
The main primary distinction between a node and an aerial root is that a node contains the essential cells for growth, while an aerial root is a root that develops along the vine and stem.
The cellular activity in the monstera node region is excellent for promoting the growth of new monstera plant parts. Aerial roots, lateral vines, and foliage all originate from a node.
While an aerial root always develops at a monstera node, not all monstera nodes generate aerial roots. There are times when these nodes only develop lateral branches or leaves.
Can You Grow a Monstera Without a Node?
Without a node, Monstera cuttings cannot develop into a mature plant since it needs only a node to do so. Therefore, it is impossible to propagate a Monstera without a node.
The bad news is that the leaf may develop some roots without a node, but it will still merely be a rooted leaf without any stems or new leaf growth. In short: you will see just a leaf.
Due to the fact that the monstera nodes store all of the genetic information required to grow a new plant, the nodes (even just a single node) are essential for the propagation process.
Can You Grow a Monstera from Just a Node?
Node is a part where all the growth takes place. Monstera plants are relatively easy to propagate, but monstera node cutting without a node may make the propagation impossible.
Fortunately, monstera cutting with even at least one node protruding from the main stem may make the propagation doable. However, that particular node must be a healthy node.
As a rule of thumb, if you wish to propagate a new monstera plant, you must have a monstera node cutting; this is an essential requirement that cannot be waived at any cost.
Can You Propagate a Monstera With Just an Aerial Root?
If your monstera cutting has aerial roots, that’s wonderful news for your propagation efforts. However, aerial roots alone cannot grow their own roots and leaves to form a full plant.
Unfortunately, nothing can be done if you only have an aerial root for propagation. To perform propagation successfully, you must have a piece of monstera stem with at least one node.
Similarly, if the aerial root is growing out of the node from the stem cutting, you’re just a few steps away from successful propagation since it can sprout new roots from the very spot.
How to Propagate Monstera with Aerial Roots?
Here’s a five-step process to propagate monstera with aerial roots.
Step 1: Cut the stem carefully with a sharp knife or pair of scissors.
Step 2: Place the stem in a jar or glass bowl to absorb water.
Step 3: Place the water jar or glass bowl in a warm, humid area.
Step 4: Change the water every three to four days.
Step 5: Once the cuttings are 2-3 inches long, plant them in the soil.
How Do I Know if My Monstera has a Node?
Nodes of the monsters like Monstera Thai Constellation may be distinguished from the rest of the stem by their protruding brownish appearance as well as light green circular rings.
Additionally, to identify nodes in a vining plant, note that they will always be present at the point where the stem split into two petioles or at the location where the aerial roots are visible.
You may find a node wherever there is a budding branch, leaf, or twig. There is always a node present in certain particular regions of a plant. Additional indications include the following:
- A protuberant growth on the main stem of a plant.
- A region of the stem that is more robust than other areas.
- Scars may also be used to determine where a leaf has formerly been.
Important Things to Know
Finally, we have covered the differences between monstera nodes and aerial roots; it is now time to unveil some expert tips about the two important components of the monstera plants.
- When propagating, ensure the node is covered with water so it can sprout roots.
- Luckily, a variegated monstera leaf without a node may grow roots and live longer.
- A node without a leaf, also known as a wet stick, can be grown into a new plant.
- When the monstera cutting is transplanted, ensure to replace it with soil roots.
- Monsteras root quicker if they have an aerial root growing from the stem.
- Always place the monstera node cutting in a position where it can receive bright light.
- When using sphagnum moss, ensure it is moist but not soggy by watering it once a week.
- If kept moist for long hours, monstera cutting can be planted straight into potting soil.
- Monstera can be propagated with a leafless node cutting and develop into a new plant.
- As compared to other varieties, stem cutting of Monstera Albo are easily findable.
- Note that not all variegated stem cuttings grow into a variegated plant.
- Unlike Monsteras, plants like Sansevieria and cactus can grow from a single leaf cutting.
- It is possible to propagate monstera in water or wet peat moss.
- Each monstera node produces the growth of one healthy leaf and multiple roots.
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
