How and Where to Prune Houseplants

In this video, see where to prune your houseplants and how. You want to prune right above a leaf node. This video shows you where the leaf nodes are located. If you don’t prune above a leaf node, the plant won’t resume growth where you cut. Tips for pruning your houseplants properly.

#healthyhouseplants #plantpruning #coleus #indoorplants #houseplantcare

Video Transcript

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Hello and welcome to HealthyHouseplants.com, where we teach you all about gardening in the great indoors! If you’d like to support our show, please use our Amazon affiliate link below.

Today, we are going to be talking about where and how to prune your houseplants. I have a beautiful coleus here, and I’m going to show you how to prune it. The principles for pruning that I’m going to demonstrate are very quick and easy and apply to all plants.

First of all, when you prune a plant, avoid cutting back more than one-third of its overall foliage, as this can shock the plant and potentially kill it. Insufficient above-ground foliage can lead to root rot because there won’t be enough leaves for the amount of soil the plant is in. Aim to prune only about one-quarter to one-third at a time.

Know why you’re pruning the plant; don’t do it just because you think it’s time. For example, the coleus tends to get a bit rangy, which is why I’ve chosen this plant to prune today. When pruning, make sure to cut just above a leaf node. This is important because the leaf node contains hormones that stimulate new leaf growth.

If you leave a long piece of stem without a leaf node, it will eventually die and break off, preventing the plant from growing new foliage. Many times, pruning is done to encourage bushier growth or to fit the plant into a specific space.

As I mentioned, knowing why you’re pruning is crucial. This coleus is a bit droopy, but since I want to make it bushier, I will prune back to these larger leaves. After pruning, you will see where I made the cut, and this will encourage more growth in that area. The remaining leaves will also grow bigger and fill in more of the plant’s space. Even now, the plant looks more balanced without the overhanging piece.

Another aspect of pruning is removing leaves that look ragged or unhealthy to maintain the plant’s aesthetic.

Soft-stem plants like coleus can be rooted in water. I will take the pruned piece and root it in water to create another plant. If you have a pot with some empty spaces, applying rooting hormone to the cutting and planting it directly in the soil can also promote growth. However, I won’t do that today since this pot is already a bit full.

To root the cutting, remove the lower leaves to expose the leaf node, and then submerge that part in water or soil.

That’s it for how and where to cut and prune your houseplants. Thank you for stopping by today! Please leave any comments about any indoor gardening tutorials you’d like to see. Remember to like, comment, subscribe, and share this video, and don’t forget to check the bell for notifications on new videos.

FAQ's How and Where to Prune Houseplants

FAQs About Pruning Houseplants

What is the best way to prune houseplants?

The best way to prune houseplants is to avoid cutting back more than one-third of the foliage at a time. Prune just above a leaf node to encourage new growth.

Why is it important to prune above a leaf node?

Pruning above a leaf node is important because it contains hormones that promote new leaf growth. This helps the plant become bushier and healthier.

How often should I prune my houseplants?

Pruning frequency depends on the plant and its growth rate. Generally, prune when the plant looks unruly or needs to fit a specific space, but do not prune more than one-third at a time.

Can I root cuttings from my houseplants?

Yes, many soft-stem plants, like coleus, can be rooted in water or soil. Remove lower leaves to expose the leaf node, then submerge it to encourage rooting.