Q&A for How to Prune Houseplants

No, you really don't want to go that route. The roots are an especially delicate part of the plant and you may accidentally kill the plant if you cut them the wrong way. If the roots are sticking out of the soil, it's a sign that your plant is too big for the container it's in. Whatever your current pot size is, go up at least 2 sizes and transfer your plant to a new container.

Reduce the height by cutting an upright stem just above a growth node. In other words, trim it right above where a leaf has sprouted. Trimming off the growing tip of a stem will prevent it from quickly gaining height and will promote a fuller appearance in the area you cut.

If they're blooming plants, only after they bloom, otherwise any time a little trim will help them get bigger.

Reduce the height of a schefflera plant by cutting an upright stem just above a growth node. In other words, trim it right above where a leaf has sprouted. Trimming off the growing tip of a stem will prevent it from quickly gaining height and will promote a fuller appearance in the area you cut.

I just pull off the dead and dying blooms with my fingers. It encourages new blooms to grow. They should come out willingly.

Cut it back as far as you want it. Make the cuts just above a healthy leaf, and cut at a 45-degree angle. You can then take the cuttings, including the newest and healthiest 2-3 leaves (usually at the end of a vine), and stick that down into the soil of the pot. They'll root easily and you'll have a fuller plant.

Hibiscus house plants should be pruned in early spring. Take a look at your plant from all directions. You want to cut back the weakest of 2 crossing branches, or cut shorter 1/4 inch above a node. Trim other branches by 1/3 their length. A proper pruning is needed for flowering, and they only flower on new growth. Keep in mind you are able to use a few of your cuttings to start new plants.