Question
Hi Will,

Quick question...I also have a Madagascar Dragon plant that I "inherited" when my husband and I were married just over a year ago.  It's close to 5 feet tall and quickly growning.  We only have 1 stalk and it's currently staked...but quickly outgrowing the stake.  

My question is can I CUT back the plant to maybe 1-2 feet tall and have it "start over?"  It's getting really tall, but the trunk is skinny and weak.  Will the leaves continue to grow if I cut it down?

Please advise...and thanks!


Answer
Hi Lauren,

Quick answer...Yes.

As long as the roots and stem are healthy, then you can cut your Marginata back to any height you desire. A new head of leaves will emerge just below the point on the stem where you make the pruning cut and will grow up from there. Cutting low, as you suggested, will get rid of the long, bare stem and will also give it a lot of future growing room before you have to prune it back again.

The thickness and strength of future stem growth will depend on the amount of light it receives; more direct sun, thicker stems. For best results, locate it in front of your sunniest window.

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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