Pruning is an essential skill for maintaining healthy, beautiful houseplants. This blog will guide you through the basics of pruning your succulents and other houseplants, tailored for beginners.
1. What is Pruning?
Pruning refers to trimming parts of your plant to encourage healthier growth. It's not just about aesthetics—pruning removes dead or damaged leaves, promoting new growth.
2. When to Prune?
Timing is crucial. Most houseplants, like succulents and Aloe Vera, benefit from pruning in the spring or early summer when they're actively growing. Avoid pruning during the plant's dormant period (late fall or winter), as this can stress the plant.
3. How to Prune Succulents
Here’s a simple, beginner-friendly guide to pruning succulents:
- Tools: Always use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant or spreading disease.
- Technique: Start by cutting off any dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves. For rosette-shaped succulents like Echeveria, cut off leggy or elongated stems to encourage a more compact shape.
4. Why Pruning is Beneficial
Pruning helps to remove dead leaves, prevent disease, and encourage a fuller, healthier plant. For example, trimming off leggy or overgrown stems helps succulents remain compact and encourages more vibrant growth.
5. Pruning for Propagation
Pruning isn’t just for maintenance—it can also be a form of propagation. Cuttings from succulents can be re-potted to grow into new plants. Simply prune a healthy leaf or stem, let it callous for a few days, and plant it in well-draining soil.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of pruning keeps your houseplants healthier and more vibrant, while also providing the opportunity for propagation. At Homegro, we encourage sustainable plant care, and our Gro Box subscriptions make sure you always have new, easy-care plants to prune and propagate.
Sign up today and grow your green thumb with ease through Homegro's monthly plant deliveries!