These Grow Poles Are the Most Stylish Way to Support Houseplants – They're the Accessory I Didn't Know I Needed

Swap traditional plant supports for these metal grow poles – they're sturdy, stylish, and playful

houseplants and watering can
(Image credit: Liudmila Chernetska / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images)

Whether you're a houseplant enthusiast or an eager beginner, you might have heard of moss poles – flexible supports that help to guide climbing plants as they grow. The problem is, these handy tools don't tend to be particularly durable, and they're certainly designed for function rather than style.

Admittedly, I didn't know that a chic alternative existed, but I'm delighted to say that I've found one: We the Wild's houseplant grow pole, available at Target, which is crafted from powder-coated steel. This support pole isn't just sturdy; it's undeniably striking, with a mid-century modern look that brings instant flair to even the most humble houseplant.

Why Grow Poles Are Important

'Plant support poles are incredibly important for climbing houseplants,' explains Tenielle Jordison, Gardens Content Editor at Homes & Gardens. 'They provide a structure for new growth to climb up, maintaining a strong and healthy silhouette and preventing flopping stems that may break.'

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Like a houseplant trellis, a grow pole is designed to train vining plants. Traditionally, grow poles are covered in nutrient-dense materials like moss or coconut fiber, offering plants a source of moisture and a handy support to help them flourish.

'These poles provide an easy way to make your biggest plants (like a monstera) look neater,' says Tenielle. 'Plus, using a plant support pole to hold houseplants upright allows them to reach light more easily and helps keep pests at bay because it improves airflow between foliage.'

Many traditional grow poles can, however, turn out to be rather fragile: while the inner core, usually crafted from plastic, can remain upright, the exterior tends to shed and weaken over time.

The result is a rather poorly-looking pole that isn't anywhere near as handsome as your houseplants themselves.

monstera deliciosa growing with pole in indoor pot

(Image credit: Firn / Alamy Stock Photo)

The Benefits of Metal Grow Poles

Fortunately, options like We the Wild's houseplant grow pole provide the perfect blend of style and practicality. A rust-resistant, powder-coated steel frame means there's no risk of deterioration (though these metal poles can be recycled eventually).

Measuring 11 inches tall, this particular grow pole is slim and lightweight enough to support a variety of houseplants without getting in the way.

Yet it's also something of a fashion statement, with the wavy silhouette creating a playful look. It's worth noting that the bright yellow hue might not be everyone's top choice, but it certainly makes an impact.

Of course, there's no shortage of whimsical houseplant accessories to shop for, whether you treat yourself to a stylish watering can (I love this stainless steel option from Rejuvenation), an elegant mister (like this cut glass mister from Anthropologie), or a set of gorgeous watering globes. (I've had my eye on Terrain's heart-shaped watering globes for months.)

That's to say nothing of statement pots, from ceramic options like Amazon's bubble planter to contemporary alternatives like Mercer41's metal planter.

With all of this in mind, sculptural poles and trellises are usually reserved for sprawling gardens or picture-perfect patios. Yet who's to say that you can't bring a different kind of flair to your indoor plants?

To me, a grow pole like this one is a stylish, sculptural answer to traditional supports. I think it's a wonderful way to add personality to your setup – all while helping your houseplants to grow vertically, without any fuss.

Why Shoppers Love WE THE WILD's Grow Pole

While traditional grow poles seem to remain the more popular choice, We the Wild's metal alternative has received plenty of positive reviews – with an average of 4.6 stars on the Target site.

'This works perfectly for my vine plants,' says one customer, while another describes it as 'super unique and very sturdy'.

'So cute,' says a particularly happy reviewer. 'I love the mid-century modern vibes.'

Shop More Houseplant Accessories


If chic grow poles have inspired you to invest in more climbing plants, you might want to check out our vertical indoor garden ideas, to help you create a particularly show-stopping display.

And if you love inspiring garden ideas, outdoor advice, and the latest news, why not sign up for our newsletter and get the latest features delivered straight to your inbox?

Martha Davies
Content Editor

Martha is a Content Editor on the Gardens team. Her love for lifestyle journalism began when she interned at Time Out Dubai when she was 15 years old; she went on to study English and German at Oxford, before covering property and interior design at Country & Town House magazine. To Martha, living beautifully is all about good food and lots of colorful home decor.