From our perspective as plants, our growth pattern is a direct response to our environment. In our native West African rainforest, we grow tall to compete for sunlight in the dense canopy. We develop a strong, woody trunk to support our heavy, large leaves. However, the conditions indoors are vastly different. Light often comes from a single source, like a window, causing us to lean phototropically towards it. The still air doesn't provide the natural resistance that strengthens our trunk, and the limited space of a pot restricts our root system's anchoring ability. A stake becomes a necessary substitute for the supportive understory plants and trees we would naturally use for stability in our jungle home.
The choice of stake is crucial for our well-being. A stake that is too thin or weak will not provide adequate support and may damage us. A sturdy, rot-resistant stake like bamboo or a thick wooden dowel is ideal. Its height should be approximately two-thirds to three-quarters of our total height to support the main trunk without interfering with new growth at the top. The stake must be inserted vertically into the potting mix, pushed down until it firmly meets the bottom of the pot. It is vital that this is done with care to avoid severing our major root systems, which are our lifeline for water and nutrient uptake. Position the stake close to the main trunk, on the side opposite to its lean, to provide counter-support.
How you attach us to the stake is perhaps the most delicate part of the process. Our trunk is a living, growing organ; it must not be constricted or damaged. Never use wire, string, or any material that can cut into our bark as we grow thicker. Instead, use soft, flexible ties such as plant velcro, wide fabric strips, or even old nylon tights. Create a loose loop that ties the stake securely, but leaves a generous buffer between the tie and our trunk—you should easily be able to slide a finger or two between the tie and our bark. This allows for essential trunk movement (which encourages natural strength development) and, most importantly, for girth expansion without girdling.
Supporting us is not a "set it and forget it" task. As we continue to grow, you must regularly check the ties. Every few months, inspect them to ensure they have not become too tight as our trunk diameter increases. Adjust or replace them as needed. The end goal for many caretakers is for us to develop our own strength. If the stake is a permanent fixture, continue to add new ties higher up the trunk as we grow taller. If the intention is to eventually remove the stake, you can gradually loosen the ties over time, encouraging us to strengthen our core by supporting more of our own weight, mimicking the natural strengthening process we would undergo in the wild.
