How To Prune Houseplants

A Guide to Pruning Houseplants for Optimal Growth and Beauty

Knowing when to prune houseplants depends on the specific type of plant you have. Typically houseplants should be pruned at the beginning of the growing season, which is late winter or early spring, for most plants. Woody indoor plants are an exception to this seasonal rule, however, for they require year-round pruning to remove dead leaves and branches.

Pruning Houseplants 101

Breaking it down can sometimes be easier than going in clueless, so check out this simple breakdown: 

Spring: Many houseplants benefit from pruning during the spring season. This is when plants typically enter a phase of active growth after a period of dormancy during winter.

After blooming: If your houseplant produces flowers, it's generally best to wait until after the blooming period to prune. This allows the plant to fully enjoy its flowering stage before you trim it back.

Regular maintenance: Regularly inspect your houseplants for any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves or stems. Prune these off as soon as you notice them to maintain the overall health and appearance of the plant.

Before new growth: Pruning just before the start of the growing season can help stimulate new growth and promote bushier, more compact plants. This timing is especially relevant for plants that tend to grow leggy or sparse.

Avoid pruning during stress periods: Try to avoid pruning houseplants during times of stress, such as when the plant is adjusting to a new environment, experiencing extreme temperatures, or undergoing significant changes in lighting or watering conditions.

How To Prune Your Houseplants

Prepare your tools

Gather the necessary tools for pruning, such as clean and sharp pruning shears or scissors, gloves (optional), and a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe down the tools.

Assess the plant

Take a close look at your houseplant and identify the areas that require pruning. Look for dead or dying leaves, damaged stems, or any growth that is interfering with the overall shape or health of the plant.

Decide on the pruning approach

Depending on your plant's needs, determine whether you need to do a light pruning to remove specific leaves or stems, or if a more extensive pruning is required to reshape or rejuvenate the plant.

Start with dead or damaged foliage

Begin by removing any dead, yellowed, or brown leaves. Trim them off at the base of the stem or close to the main branch using your pruning shears or scissors. This helps redirect the plant's energy towards healthier growth.

Remove diseased or pest-infested parts

If you notice any signs of disease, such as fungal spots or pest infestations, remove the affected areas. Make clean cuts well below the affected portion to prevent the spread of disease.

Thin out overcrowded growth

If your plant has become too dense or overcrowded, selectively prune some of the stems or branches to improve air circulation and light penetration. Remove any crossing or rubbing branches to prevent damage and allow for better growth.

Shape the plant

 If you desire a specific shape or size for your houseplant, carefully prune and shape it accordingly. Trim the stems or branches to achieve the desired form, keeping in mind the plant's natural growth pattern.

Step back and evaluate

After pruning, take a step back and assess the overall appearance of your plant. Make any additional trims or adjustments if necessary to achieve the desired aesthetic and balance.

Clean up and care

Once you finish pruning, clean up any fallen leaves or trimmings around the plant. It's also a good time to provide your houseplant with any necessary care, such as watering, fertilizing, or repotting if needed.

For more ideas check out Leaf Propagation and Leaf Cutting: A Scientific Rundown!