How to Use Moss poles to Grow Houseplants

Do you have a climbing plant that is in dire need of support? If so, then it is time to invest in a moss pole! Moss poles are essential for giving your climbing plants the structure they need to grow tall and strong. 

Here is a guide we will learn what exactly is a moss pole and how it helps in growing houseplants.

What is a moss pole?

A moss pole is a vertically oriented structure used to support and grow plants. It is typically made of wood, metal, or plastic, and is coated in moss. It can be used to grow plants by threading the plants’ roots through the holes in the moss pole and then watering the moss pole. 

The moss pole helps to keep the plants’ roots well-hydrated and helps them grow fast.

Why should you use a moss pole for your houseplants? 

Moss poles are an ideal choice for growing epiphytes. In nature, an epiphyte grows on the surface of another plant (often a tree), and derives its moisture and nutrients from the air, rain, water, or debris accumulating around it. They usually develop vines to grow up. 

A moss pole actually mimics the natural growth environment of an epiphyte by giving them a surface to affix to and also giving them a source for water and nutrients. 

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A moss pole also strengthens the plant because of the root attachment. 

Best of all, it’s easy to use; just soak the moss pole in water for a few minutes before placing it in the potting soil next to your plant. 

Moss poles are an interesting way to grow your houseplants, especially epiphytes. Compared to other options like stakes or a trellis, a moss pole offers more flexibility and takes up less space. 

It also helps to support the plant and can add an aesthetically pleasing touch. 

Which plants benefit from a moss pole?

Moss poles are a great way to grow plants with vines and climbing plants. By using a moss pole, you can avoid having to use stakes or cages to support the plants. The pole itself will provide sturdy support for the plants to grow on.

There are many plants that can benefit from using a moss pole. Some of the most popular plants include monstera, Philodendron, ivy, morning glory, and wisteria. All of these plants can grow quickly and reach heights of up to 20 feet or more.

If you are looking for a way to add some extra height to your houseplant, then consider using a moss pole. Not only will it help your plants grow tall, but it will also add some extra beauty to your garden as well.

Why a Moss Pole is the Best Support for Your Monstera Plant

How to use a moss pole?

The materials you’ll need to grow your plant with a moss pole are as follows:

• A moss pole 
• Something to attach the plant with the moss pole like Velcro strips or threads. 
• A houseplant

The first thing you’ll need to do is find a moss pole. There are plenty of options out there, you can purchase pre-made moss poles online or in a garden store, and you can also make your own moss poles. 

Place the pole in the container or in the garden near the plant you are growing. Use velcro strips to bind your houseplant with the moss pole. 

For a plant like Philodendron that has thin vines, be very careful when putting it against the moss pole. The vines are easily damaged, so don’t tie them to the moss pole too tightly.

You can continue this process as long as you want. Eventually, the plant will learn to grow against the moss pole and will grow air roots.

How to make a DIY Moss Pole:

Here is a step-by-step guide to making your own DIY moss pole.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials:   

There are quite a few things you need to prepare the moss pole. You’ll need 

• A pole, wooden dowel, or PVC pipe to fix the moss 
• Sphagnum moss
• String or fishing line to secure the sphagnum moss with the pole or pipe
• A large bowl filled with water to soak the sphagnum moss.
• A waterproof glove and a scissor

So first gather these before you move on to the next step.

Step 2: Soak your Moss:    

Soak your moss in water for about 15-20 minutes. The moss can absorb quite a lot of water so make sure you have added enough water for the moss to expand. 

Always use a waterproof glove to soak the sphagnum moss.

Step 3: Attach the Moss to your Pole:    

Once your sphagnum moss is soaked properly, attach it to the pole or the pipe.

This pole will be the main support for your moss pole. 

Using strings or fishing lines to secure layers of the sphagnum moss to the pole. Always squeeze out the excess water before affixing it to the pole. 

Please remember your plants will grow roots into the moss so make sure the layer of sphagnum moss is thick enough to do so.

Step 4: Place your Pole and Train your Plant:

Once you finished making your moss pole, add it to your plant’s pot. Without disturbing the existing roots of the plants carefully Insert the base of the pole into the pot. 

Now use velcro strips, threads, or pins to secure your plant to the moss pole.

This project can get a bit messy, so it is a good idea to do it outside your house or on a work mat to protect your house. 

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How to care for your moss pole 

Keep the moss moist at all times. In order to do this, you may need to water it from the top-down or you can also mist the pole regularly. 

Never separate the plant roots from the moss pole once it has secured itself to the pole, this can cause damage to the plant.

Once the plant has outgrown the moss pole, add to the existing pole by extending it at the top. Never create a brand-new moss pole. 

While repotting you will have to bring the moss pole with it to the new pot, without damaging any aerial roots.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, using moss poles to grow houseplants is an easy and convenient way to get plants into your home. The plants will need little care and will thrive in the moist environment created by the moss pole. 

I hope this post was helpful and you have learned something new today. Feel free to share it with others also.