Question
The answers to Deborah's questions about the Janet Craig were very helpful.  I have had this plant since 1991 and did not even know exactly what it was!  I recently came across one that looked like mine and it had the name on it for identification.  My plant is over 4 feet tall and has never bloomed (I was envious when Deborah said hers had bloomed!).  My plant is the short leaved and very vertical variety with only one stem.  It is a bit top heavy causing it to lean and I have it somewhat supported by the wall at this time.  

My questions are: 1) If I cut some of its height will the main stalk become stronger and support future height better?  2)  How much should I cut off?  3)  Can the portion I cut off be rooted and how do I do that?  4)  Is cutting a portion off the solution or is staking the plant and providing support a better option?  

Answer
Hi Venetta,

It is rather unusual for potted Janet Craigs to flower and their flowers are rather insignificant, so don't be too envious!

Apparently you have a Janet Craig compacta.

(4) Pruning it back is a better option, in my opinion. Otherwise it will be propped up forever and in fact will need to have longer stakes as it grows taller.

(1) Pruning it will not alter the thickness or strength of the existing stem. However, removing weight from the top will make it less top heavy. If you cut it low enough, it will be able to stand on its own.

(2) Just remember that wherever you cut it, the new growth will start from that point and grow up from there. So you decide where you want the new growth to come in and that will determine where you should cut it back to.

(3) The top section can be rooted in damp soil or in the base of the existing plant. Shorter tip cuttings root more readily than longer cuttings, so you may want to cut off the lower portion of the cutting before you root it.

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

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.