Question
These plants are part of the family now.   It's getting a bit leggy.  It's been repotted several times - new compost etc.  I suppose it should be radically cut back - repotted and then hope it will rejuvenate.   I am a long-time gardener, keeper of houseplants but would value your advice.

Answer
Hi Barbara,

My first piece of advice is to stay away from repotting. Older plants do not need repotting. Their roots are no longer expanding and adding soil adds to the risk of root rot.

The only cure for legginess is substantial pruning. Pruning works better if it is done pro-actively - before the plant gets noticeably leggy. Older growth does not reproduce new growth as readily as new growth. That means that the further down on the stem you prune, the less chance that new growth will emerge. Yet, if you want to get new growth down on the lower part of the plant, then you have to prune petty far back.

Unfortunately, I cannot tell you just how far back you can safely prune. Just keep it in mind when you do prune.

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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