Question
I've had a hybiscus (indoor) for about 16 years, repotted it once as it was getting too big for it's orginal pot.  I had no problems with it, and it continued to bloom, however, now it it getting very "leggy".  What is the best way to "prune" it back, and can I take the cuttings and try to root them to make more plants?
 Thank you for your help.
            Jeanne Reiderer
             Sparta, Tennessee

Answer
Hi Jeanne,

I generally recommend pruning back a Hibiscus by about one-third every year or two. This keeps that plant looking full and compact and prevents legginess. Once it has gone a long time without pruning, as yours has, then a major pruning leaves that plant looking rather barren until new growth comes in. So be prepared for that.

In addition, it is usually best to prune in the late winter or early spring before any buds have formed. However, it will not damage the Hibiscus to do it this late.

I could be more specific about how much to prune back if you could email some photos to me. In the absence of photos, I can only suggest that you prune off about one-third of each stem using sharp pruners.

Tip cuttings - the top 4 to 6 inches of each stem - can be rooted in water and then transferred to a small pot filled with a soilless potting mix after the roots are about an inch long. Putting many cuttings together in one pot makes for a fuller plant.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.
  
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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