Question
hi will, and thanks in advance...
I had a three foot tall zebra plant. It's about 5 years old, and needs water
every few days. I know you say not to repot often, so even thought it's root
bound, i kept it in the same pot.  My girlfriend occasionally trimmed it,
thinking it might flower or become less leggy. It did gain a few branches.
Today she cut the entire top part off, and put it in water.  I'm wondering if the
bottom twelve inches will survive, or if there is anything special I can do to
keep it going.  I presume based on your other posts that the top might root in
the water and then i can repot it.  I hope this makes sense. Thanks again!


Answer
Hi Starla,

You make a lot of sense and you seem to have a good understanding of what to do and what will happen. About all I can do is confirm your understandings.

It is best not to repot as long as you are okay with watering every couple of days, as needed.

Pruning is the only way to go with older, leggy Zebra plants. The lower portion should produce new growth just below the pruning cut and grow upward from there. Thus, you might want to cut it shorter than 12 inches. Continue to provide the same care for it, although you may find that it takes a bit longer for it to dry out after it has been pruned.

The top cutting can be rooted in water.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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