Question
I have a medium sized, rather striking syngonium.  What causes the very tips of only a few of the leaves to turn brown and curl under?  I have examined the leaves with a magnifying glass and can see no insects.  I would love to put an end to this problem if I could.  ALSO, in pruning these plants so they do not become long and leggy, exactly what do you cut off?   Sounds goofy, doesn't it?!   I mean, I've pruned back much older plants that had long, gnarled stems.  But, mine is a young plant, only 2 years old, and it does not have the long, overgrown "stems"; or should I wait until they develop to cut them back?  Many thanks!

Answer
Hi Pat,

A few distorted or discolored leaf tips are not indicative of a serious problem. A slight watering lapse, some excess minerals in the water, a brief cold draft, aging or a genetic anomaly can all cause this symptom. But if only a few leaves are affected, then I don't think it warrants taking any corrective action.

A photo of the entire plant and of the affected leaves might reveal something else to me. You can email photos to me at my address below.

In nature, Syngonium is a vining or running plant that puts down roots as it comes in contact with moist soil or tree bark in a rain forest. Its tendency is to put out long stems that droop downward. Because the leaves are spaced fairly far apart, they tend to develop a leggy look after they are allowed to grow unpruned.

Just when to prune is a judgment call based on how you want your plant to look. Remember that new growth always emerges from a point on the stem just below where you make the pruning cut. Thus, you control where future growth will be and you decide when you think it would look better pruned back.

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

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

Visit my web site at www.HorticulturalHelp.com