How to Use a Trellis for Houseplants: A Beginner's Guide

As a proud plant parent, you’ve likely encountered climbing plants or vines that seem to have a mind of their own. Trailing down a shelf, growing up a wall, taking over way too much shelf space. If you are looking to tame your jungle and tidy up all the beautiful new growth without having to trim your plants, you need a trellis—a stylish and functional solution to support your plant's natural growth.

 In this guide, we’ll explore how to use a trellis for houseplants, why they’re essential, and how they can enhance your plant’s health and aesthetic appeal.

Why Do Houseplants Need a Trellis?

Many common houseplants, such as Monstera, Pothos, Philodendron (smaller leaf varieties), and Hoya, are natural climbers. In their natural habitats, they grow by clinging to trees or rocks, also known as epiphytic growth. A trellis allows you to mimic these conditions indoors, providing:

• Better Growth: Supporting plants upward can promote healthier growth and maximize space.
• Improved Aesthetics: Trellises create a unique display, turning your plant into living decor.
• Reduced Damage: A trellis keeps long vines from tangling or trailing on surfaces, which can cause breakage.
• Increased Photosynthesis: When leaves are on a trellis they have easier access to light, allowing them to photosynthesize more and promote healthy new growth

Choosing the Right Trellis for Your Houseplants

When selecting a trellis, consider these factors:

1. Material: Opt for durable, moisture-resistant materials. Our trellises are made of industrial grade acrylic that will withstand time and never decay like other organic materials. Acrylic also requires minimal upkeep.
2. Size: Ensure the trellis is proportionate to your plant and pot. It should support growth without overwhelming your plant. We offer a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing you to select exactly what you need for each stage of growth.
3. Style: Look for modern and functional designs, like our Arka Trellises, which blend seamlessly with any decor while providing excellent support. Our minimal designs help keep your plants the center of attention while supporting their growth. 

How to Install a Trellis for Your Indoor Plant

Follow these simple steps to set up your trellis:

1. Choose the Right Plant

Trellises work best for climbing or trailing plants like:

• Monstera adansonii
• Pothos
• Philodendron Brasil
• Hoya carnosa (or almost any hoya variety) 

You can also use a trellis to stabilize a cutting, or support a top heavy plant that has begun to lean to one side.

2. Position the Trellis

Place the trellis in the pot before planting or gently insert the trellis into an existing pot. We recommend centering the trellis in the pot for stability, to help make sure the pant remains secure and won’t tip over as it grows.

3. Train Your Plant

Carefully guide vines toward the trellis and attach them using plant clips or soft plant ties. Avoid pulling too tightly to prevent damage to the stems. In the specific case of hoya vines, ensure the active growth tip of the vine is positioned facing upwards.

4. Monitor and Adjust

As your plant grows, continue training new vines to the trellis. Regularly check ties or clips to ensure they’re not constricting the plant, and feel free to reposition them or add more to where feels most secure.

Tips for Using a Trellis with Houseplants

• Support Early: Begin training your plant to climb when it’s young and flexible.
• Maintain Clips: Make sure to check on your plants every 4-6 weeks and clip back any new vines around the trellis with plant clips 
• Get Creative: Trellises help you train the growth of a plant, allowing you to shape the plant exactly how you want it. You can combine different size trellises to allow for more climbing space within the same pot, or choose a fun shape for no other reason than decoration.

Popular Houseplants That Love a Trellis

• Hoya plants: These bloom beautifully when given the structure to grow upward. If you have ever experienced a hoya growing a long vine with no leaves, this is typically a sign of the plant looking for support
• Monstera adansonii: Use a trellis to support its iconic leaves and keep growth unifrom.
• Philodendron micans: Its velvety leaves look stunning when wrapped around a trellis.
• String of Hearts: Perfect for small trellises; its delicate vines create a beautiful display. (especially on a Sweetheart Trellis!)

Enhance Your Indoor Jungle with Arka Trellises

At Propagation Diaries we believe in creating modern, functional houseplant accessories that help your greenery thrive. We want you to be intentional with the products you select to grow your prized plant collection, and strive to provide high quality and durable products that will last. Our Arka Trellises  are designed with plant parents in mind—durable, stylish, and easy to use. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced plant lover, our trellises are the perfect addition to your indoor jungle. Don't leave your plants hanging!

Final Thoughts

Using a trellis for houseplants not only supports healthy growth but also transforms your plants into eye-catching decor. By choosing the right trellis and training your plants carefully, you’ll create a thriving indoor garden that’s both functional and beautiful.

Ready to take your plant care to the next level? Explore our modern trellises today and give your climbing plants the support they deserve!

Have any questions? Leave them in the comments!