Got pictures ???

Hi
I've used all kinds of branches for various plants and the big problem was rot. Certain types of hardwoods being the most long lasting. Interestingly those that I found resistant to rot such as ironwood,rosewood mahogany also resisted allowing the plant to root lol
Mainly what I use are various sizes of PVC pipe covered with various materials. For MD a good choice would be tree fern fiber?? Obviously this can be made any size shape or form you can even drill holes for irrigation. To this you can also add various types of epiphytes for added interest.
gary

Thanks, Gary. I had wondered about the possibility of the branch rotting over time. How would you recommend attaching tree fern fiber to the PVC?

My main concern would be having something that looked "natural."

OK, doing research on this site as well as many other places... How does this sound... Build the frame for the pole out of PVC. Then surround the pvc with wet floral foam blocks (cutting holes in the middle for PVC to go through) then wrapping with either coco fiber or "mighty mat" sheets of moss (http://www.floralsupply.com/cat.cgi?s=Mighty%20Mat%20reinforced%20Moss%20Blanket&c=dsgnaccs)

Thoughts?

I have been informed that the floral foam blocks may mildew or even break down over time, so perhaps it's not the best choice. How about wrapping the PVC with coconut fiber and then the sphagnum moss?

Any other suggestions?

How would these be, wrapped around PVC pipe?

Here is a link that might be useful: Cocotek Mats

I have found that trying to keep any sort of moss pole consistently moist indoors is very difficult and more trouble than it is worth. And a Monstera deliciosa will do extremely well without a moist pole. So unless you are using the moss strictly for its natural look, I'd go forgo it for any pole strong enough to keep your Monstera upright.

Yes, the natural look is what I was going for. I prefer the look of a tree branch, really, and I found a great looking one in the park the other day. But I think I'll do 1.5" PVC with the cocotek mats wrapped around it.

{{gwi:46347}}

If this is what you mean as a monstera deliciosa (sometimes people call cheeseplants) Why not use the roots as the plants supports. This one is still growing supported only by it's roots.

Hi
Spoke too soon lol. Is the pic what you mean?? I'd call that a self heading philodendron?? maybe sellourm??
What I call MD is a distinct vine habit much like pothos but MUCH larger. The above plant I use for landscape and develops a distinct trunk. All develop aerial roots but the above has MUCH larger stronger ones.
This family is a nightmare to figure out as there are SOOOO many kinds All are aroids though lol.
I think in your case since you'll be using the support primarily for looks I'd go for the real limb. Maybe give it a coat of water seal??. Should last long enough to get to the next repotting??
Would certainly be cheap and easy to set up. If it doesn't last so what??
You'd only run into a problem with true epiphytes .Such as Broms, Orchids.
I apologise for saying anything because I grow all my "houseplants" outdoors or in the SH much different method. good luck with whatever you decide gary

That plant pictured is not a monstera.

Keltic, before using your new-found branch, clean thoroughly..My son put a branch in his iguana home...2 wks later little, black bugs were everywhere..lol..

George, your Monstera/Selloum Philodendron is absolutely beautiful. Toni

Thanks everyone. Yes, my plant is an actual Monstera, though the one pictured is a nice plant too. I already went out and bought some PVC, but I think I will just use this branch - it's a cool one. I guess worst case scenario is it falls down in a year or two. :-p But actually, it's growing up a smaller branch now, and has been on this one since 2006.

The plant in georgeiii's picture is a Philodendron bipinnatifidum, more commonly (but incorrectly) called P. selloum.

Confusion arises because both P. bipinnatifidum and Monstera deliciosa are sometimes called "split-leaf philodendron," even though only one is a philodendron and (as far as I'm concerned) only one has split leaves.

(Apologies if necessary for the self-promotion, but it's on-topic, I swear.)