How to stake indoor plants for support

Some plants like to stand tall all on their own. Others? Well, they could use a little help. Especially when they start growing fast, get a bit too top-heavy, or are natural climbers looking for something to hold onto. That is where staking comes in. A simple support can make all the difference for your indoor green friends!

Whether you’ve got a Monstera reaching for the skies, a Philodendron on the move, or a pothos that just won’t sit still, giving your plant some extra support can make a world of difference. Here’s how to do it right.

When should you stake a plant?

The best moment to add support is while your plant is still young and actively growing. Waiting too long can risk damaging the roots when inserting a stake into the soil.

Tip: If you already know your plant might need support, place the stake when repotting. This way, your plant can grow comfortably around it from the start.

Choosing the right support

Not every plant needs the same kind of help. The type of support depends on the shape, size, and growth habit of your plant. These are our go-to support options for happy houseplants:

Plant stakes

Looking for a plant support that’s a bit more extravagant? Plant stakes might be exactly what you’re looking for! They’re perfect for single-stemmed plants or those that tend to lean, but they also add a stylish touch to your plant display.

From simple and straight to zigzags, elegant little perches or a spiral, plant stakes come in all sorts of shapes and styles! Whether you’re into clean and minimal or want something with a playful twist, there’s always a stake that fits your plant’s personality (and your style).

Moss poles

The moss pole is a must-have for climbing plants like Monstera, pothos, or climbing Philodendrons. These plants naturally grow upwards by clinging to trees and other surfaces, and a moss pole helps recreate that environment indoors.

Wrapped in sphagnum moss or coir, the pole offers a soft, natural surface for aerial roots to grip onto. This encourages strong, healthy growth and helps your plant show off its beautiful leaves.

A few extra tips for happy, supported plants

Here are a few more tips to help your plant thrive while staying upright and healthy:

• Always go for soft ties to avoid hurting those delicate stems.
• Even better, try handy helpers like the PLNTS Clip Ruby or the PLNTS Binder Ruby. They’re cute, super easy to use, and gentle on your plant.
• Make sure your ties aren’t too tight. Your plant needs room to grow and move.
• Check in now and then to see if anything needs adjusting. Plants grow fast when they’re happy!
• Using a moss pole? Give it a little mist from time to time. Climbers love a damp pole to grab onto!

Why staking makes a difference

Supporting your indoor plants isn’t just about looks (although a beautifully staked Monstera is hard to beat). It helps your plant grow stronger, prevents damage from bending or snapping, and encourages healthy, upward growth.

Plus, it makes your plant look neat, structured, and ready to shine.

How to stake your indoor plant: step-by-step

Staking is easy when you know the steps. Here’s how to do it in a simple and plant-friendly way:

1. Choose your support
   Start by picking what suits your plant best. A climbing Monstera or pothos will love a moss pole, while a single, slightly wobbly stem might do better with a simple bamboo or wooden stake.

2. Place the stake carefully
   Pop the stake gently into the soil, close to the stem but without damaging the roots. If you’re repotting, that’s the perfect time to add it because the roots will grow around it naturally.

3. Tie the plant loosely
   Use soft clips or binders, like the PLNTS Clip Ruby or Binder Ruby, to attach your plant to its support. Make sure they’re not too tight because your plant needs a bit of room to move in order to grow comfortably.

4. Adjust as your plant grows
   As your plant grows, check in from time to time to make sure the clips or binders are still in the right spot. You might need to move one a little higher or add another to support new growth. These small tweaks keep your plant steady, healthy, and looking its best.

A little support goes a long way

With just a little care, staking helps your indoor plants grow taller, stronger and more confident. Whether you’re giving a fast grower some structure or helping a climber reach new heights, that bit of extra support truly makes all the difference!

Happy staking and happy growing!