Question
My corn plant is 11 years old.  It probably would be in great shape if I watered the poor thing on a regular basis.  My New Year's Res is to be more conscious of it's needs.  It is 6'4" tall.  One main stalk with two stalks on either side about 3" down on main stalk.  It has no trouble putting out leaves (the new leaves are still in good shape) and they would be beautiful if I took better care of it.  What I'd like to know is can I remove all the bottom leaves that are damaged; the plant would then look pretty ugly.  Or should I just cut the whole thing down and start again.  It's never been cut down and if that's what you suggest, how is that done.  Thanks so much, and my Corn Plant thanks you much more than I!

Answer
Hi Becky,

No one enjoys looking at dying and discolored leaves, so it is best to remove them. It will not improve the health of your Corn Plant, but it should improve its appearance.

If doing this leaves the plant looking bare and leggy, then pruning may be in order. Either or both of the stems growing out of the thick, bark-covered cane can be pruned. I cannot see your plant so it is hard for me to say just how far back you should prune, but I suggest cutting the tallest, leggiest stem back to about 4-6 inches above the main cane.

If the roots are not too badly damaged from your irregular watering, then they will help push out new growth from just below the pruning cut. However, I cannot guarantee this, so you are taking some risk. If your are successful, then you can later prune back the other stem.

The pruned off stem sections can be rooted in water or in small pots filled with damp potting mix.

Corn plants do best in bright indirect light and in small pots. Water when the top quarter of the soil feels dry. If your tap water is hard, use filtered or distilled instead. Fertilize very sparingly.

I have written an article on Corn Plant care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC