If your houseplant has lost its shape, is getting too big or has unsightly leaves, it is time to prune the plant. In the process, pruning houseplants can stimulate flower growth and make plants fuller.
Keeping a large houseplant compact
Do you have a houseplant that is getting too big? Then keep it compact by pruning it. When you remove or shorten long stems, you keep the plant in check. Just don't prune it too often, as this can actually stimulate growth. Prune your plant back once or twice a year.
Making a plant fuller
Want to make your houseplant fuller? When you remove the tips of a stem, a chemical is released. This chemical stimulates the growth of side shoots, at the bottom of the plant, creating fuller growth. You can easily remove the tops of stems with pruning shears or your fingers.
Remove dead or diseased parts
Does your plant have dead or diseased leaves or stems? Then carefully cut or trim these parts away with pruning shears or sharp secateurs. Also remove stems that rub against each other, as this can cause wounds. After pruning, remember to disinfect the tools you use to avoid infecting other houseplants with any diseases.
Getting more flowers
Do you have a houseplant in your home that is blooming? If so, keep a close eye on the flowers. Blooming flowers are best removed immediately because they use up a lot of energy. So remove them carefully so the plant can put its energy into producing new flowers instead of producing seeds.
What should you prune?
Not sure if you should prune your houseplant? Then read below for the main points to watch out for.
- Dead, broken or cracked stems
- Diseased stems
- Stems rubbing against each other
- Brown or discolored leaves
- Stems that are too long, causing a crooked shape
- Stem tops to encourage fuller growth
- Main stems at the top to prevent them from growing too tall
- Remove old flower stems to encourage the plant to grow again
- Stems with plain leaves on variegated plants
Pruning a houseplant in 4 easy steps
Before pruning, always check your plant carefully so you know in advance which stems to remove.
- When pruning, use a sharp pruning knife and prune just above a leaf stem, node or side stem, where it meets the main stem. If you want to prune an entire stem, remove it at the base of the plant.
- Remove dead, damaged and diseased stems. Prune these stems to the point where they are still healthy. Also prune stems that stick together too closely. Do you have a houseplant that is naturally variegated? If so, remove any stems with plain, dark leaves as well.
- Have you removed all the unhealthy parts? Then take another critical look at the shape of your plant and prune parts that deform the plant. If there are holes in the plant's shape, prune the stem tips around these holes to encourage fuller growth.
- Is your plant tall enough? Then remove the top of the main stems to prevent further growth. When you are done pruning, clean the tools you used with a skin disinfectant. Rinse it well under the tap and dry it.
Best period to prune your houseplant
Of course, it is best to remove unhealthy parts of the plant immediately. But when it comes to shape or size, the best time to prune is in early spring. This allows the plant to easily repair any damage during the growing period.
