my philodendron has many air roots

Question

Is it ok for my large leaf philodendron to have air roots? It grows one straight across the stem from where each new leaf grows. It is ok to cut them off? The are getting very long. They are just brown and I think they detract from the look of the plant.

Thank you so much.

Answer 1

Air roots, although necessary for climbing, sometimes begin to look messy if the philodendron produces more than it needs to support itself, but it is simple to trim the air roots of philodendrons and will not harm the plant.
Sterilize the blade of a sharp utility knife. Rub the blade with undiluted hydrogen peroxide and let it dry completely before using it on the philodendron to kill any bacteria or harmful pathogens.

Locate any troublesome air roots on the philodendron plants. Look for roots with excessive length, ragged ends or discoloration. Avoid trimming any air roots actively anchoring the philodendron plant to its trellis.