Learn how to prune your philodendron so it will continue to thrive indoors.
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Introduction
Philodendrons (Philodendron spp.) are fast-growing, easily propagated houseplants that come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Though they’re generally low-maintenance, philodendrons benefit from regular pruning to help them stay compact and bushy. You can prune philodendrons any time of year, but spring is the best time to give them a good trim.
The Case for Philodendron Pruning
Philodendrons are versatile houseplants that can tolerates a wide range of growing conditions. They are known for their ability to thrive in low-light environments and tolerate neglect. While philodendrons don’t require much maintenance, they will benefit from occasional pruning to encourage new growth and maintain a neat appearance.
Pruning philodendrons is also a good way to control the plant’s size. When left unpruned, philodendrons can become large, leggy plants that are difficult to manage. By trimming back the stems and leaves on a regular basis, you can keep your philodendron looking its best.
There are two main reasons to prune a philodendron: for maintenance and for control.
Maintenance pruning is done to remove dead or damaged leaves and stems. This type of pruning helps keep the plant healthy and looking its best. It is also important for preventing disease and pests from taking hold. Control pruning is done to manage the plant’s size and shape. This type of pruning is helpful if you want to keep your philodendron compact or prevent it from getting too leggy.
No matter what type of pruning you are doing, it is important to use sharp, clean shears or scissors. This will help prevent disease and damage to the plant. Always make sure to sterilize your cutting tools before using them on your philodendron (or any other plant). You can do this by wiping them down with rubbing alcohol or soaking them in a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water
How to Prune a Philodendron
When it comes to pruning a philodendron, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you should always use clean, sharp pruning shears. Second, you should make sure to prune your philodendron in the early spring or late fall. This will help encourage new growth. Third, you should always prune back the philodendron to the main stem. Doing so will help encourage a fuller, healthier plant.
Step One: Assess the Plant
Before you start cutting away at your plant, it’s important to understand what you’re working with. Different types of philodendrons have different pruning needs.
There are two main types of philodendrons: vining and non-vinning. Vining philodendrons will vine and climb if given the opportunity, while non-vinning varieties stay shorter and bushier.
Pruning needs also differ between vining and non-vinning plants. Vining plants can be pruned quite heavily without causing any harm, while non-vinning plants should be pruned much less aggressively.
Step Two: Cut Back the Stems
With pruning shears, cut back the philodendron’s stems to the desired length. Make sure to make each cut at a 45-degree angle, about 1/4″ above a leaf node.
Step Three: Cut Away Dead or Damaged leaves
To keep your philodendron healthy and growing strong, you’ll need to prune it on a regular basis. You can prune away dead or damaged leaves, as well as any that are crowding or growing in an unattractive way. Follow these steps to give your philodendron a neat, tidy shape.
Cut away dead or damaged leaves with a sharp pair of shears. Make sure to cut cleanly through the stem, just above where it joins the main plant. If any leaves are crowding or growing in an unattractive way, you can trim them back as well. Just be careful not to cut away too much – you don’t want to damage the plant.
Once you’ve finished pruning, give your philodendron a good watering and watch it bounce back with new growth in no time!
Conclusion
Pruning a philodendron is an easy way to keep it looking its best. Pruning also encourages new growth, which can make the plant fuller and more vigorous. Use sharp, sterile pruning shears to remove any dead or dying leaves, as well as any leggy growth. You can also cut back the plant to promote bushier growth. When pruning, be sure to make clean cuts so that the plant can heal quickly.