Money plants respond well to pruning just above a leaf node to encourage bushier growth. If you’ve been wondering how to prune a money plant, you’re in the right place. Pruning isn’t just about keeping your plant tidy—it helps it thrive. Let’s get started with the basics.
Pruning a money plant (also called a jade plant or Crassula ovata) is simple. You don’t need fancy tools. Just a pair of clean scissors and a little know-how. This guide will walk you through every step.
Why Prune A Money Plant?
Pruning keeps your money plant healthy and looking good. It removes dead or leggy growth. It also encourages new branches to form. Without pruning, your plant might get too tall or lopsided.
Regular pruning helps the plant focus energy on strong stems. It also prevents diseases by improving air flow. Plus, you can propagate the cuttings to grow new plants. Win-win.
Benefits Of Pruning
- Promotes bushier growth
- Removes damaged or diseased parts
- Controls size and shape
- Increases light exposure to inner leaves
- Provides cuttings for propagation
When To Prune A Money Plant
Timing matters. The best time to prune is during the growing season—spring or early summer. The plant is actively growing then, so it recovers faster. Avoid pruning in winter when growth slows down.
You can do light pruning any time of year. Just remove dead leaves or stems as needed. Heavy pruning should wait for warmer months.
Signs Your Plant Needs Pruning
- Stems are long and thin (leggy)
- Leaves are yellow or brown
- The plant looks unbalanced
- Branches are crossing or rubbing
- You see dead or mushy parts
How To Prune A Money Plant: Step-By-Step
Now let’s get into the main event. Follow these steps for a successful prune. Remember, the keyword here is how to prune a money plant—and we’re covering it thoroughly.
Tools You Need
- Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors
- Rubbing alcohol for sterilizing
- Paper towel or cloth
- Optional: rooting hormone for cuttings
Sterilize your tools before starting. Dip them in rubbing alcohol or wipe with alcohol wipes. This prevents spreading diseases.
Step 1: Inspect The Plant
Look at your money plant carefully. Identify which stems are leggy, damaged, or crossing. Note where you want to make cuts. Always cut just above a leaf node—that’s where the leaf meets the stem.
Cutting above a node encourages new growth from that spot. If you cut too far from a node, the stem might die back.
Step 2: Remove Dead Or Diseased Parts
Start by cutting off any dead, yellow, or mushy leaves. Also remove stems that look shriveled or discolored. These parts won’t recover and can attract pests.
Make clean cuts close to the main stem. Don’t leave stubs, as they can rot.
Step 3: Trim Leggy Stems
Leggy stems are long with few leaves. Cut them back to a node that’s closer to the base. This forces the plant to branch out. Aim to cut about one-third of the stem’s length.
For example, if a stem is 12 inches long, cut it back to 8 inches. Make the cut at a 45-degree angle to prevent water from sitting on the cut.
Step 4: Shape The Plant
Now focus on overall shape. Money plants naturally grow upright, but you can guide them. Trim stems that stick out too far. Keep the plant balanced by cutting longer stems on one side.
Step back and look at the plant from all angles. Prune a little at a time—you can always cut more later.
Step 5: Thin Out Crowded Areas
If the plant is dense, remove some inner stems. This improves air circulation and light penetration. Cut stems that are rubbing against each other.
Thinning also reduces the risk of fungal issues. Aim for an open, airy structure.
Step 6: Clean Up
After pruning, collect all cuttings. You can toss them or use them for propagation. Wipe down leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust. Water the plant lightly if the soil is dry.
Don’t fertilize right after pruning. Wait a few weeks to let the plant recover.
How To Propagate Pruned Cuttings
Don’t throw away those cuttings! Money plants root easily in water or soil. Here’s how to do it.
Propagation In Water
- Take a 4-6 inch cutting with a few leaves.
- Remove the lower leaves so only 2-3 remain at the top.
- Place the cutting in a jar of water, submerging the node.
- Change the water every few days.
- Roots should appear in 2-4 weeks.
- Once roots are 1-2 inches long, plant in soil.
Propagation In Soil
- Let the cutting dry for a day to form a callus.
- Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist, well-draining soil.
- Keep the soil lightly damp but not wet.
- Place in bright, indirect light.
- Roots should develop in 3-6 weeks.
Common Mistakes When Pruning
Even experienced gardeners make errors. Here are pitfalls to avoid.
Cutting Too Much At Once
Removing more than one-third of the plant can shock it. Prune gradually over several weeks if needed. Your plant will thank you.
Using Dull Tools
Dull scissors crush stems instead of cutting cleanly. This damages tissue and invites disease. Always use sharp, clean tools.
Pruning At The Wrong Time
Pruning in late fall or winter can stress the plant. Stick to spring or early summer for major cuts. Light trimming is okay year-round.
Ignoring Leaf Nodes
Cutting between nodes leaves a bare stem that won’t regrow. Always cut just above a node. This is key for bushier growth.
Aftercare For A Pruned Money Plant
Your plant needs a little TLC after pruning. Here’s what to do.
Light And Water
Place the plant in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can stress fresh cuts. Water only when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can cause rot.
Fertilizing
Wait 3-4 weeks before fertilizing. Use a balanced, diluted fertilizer during the growing season. Don’t feed in winter.
Monitor For Pests
Pruning can expose hidden pests. Check for mealybugs, spider mites, or scale. Wipe leaves with neem oil if needed.
How To Prune A Money Plant For Specific Goals
Sometimes you want a certain look. Here’s how to tailor your pruning.
For A Bushy Appearance
Pinch off the top growth of each stem. This encourages side branches. Do this regularly during the growing season. The plant will fill out nicely.
For A Tree-Like Shape
Choose a single main stem as the trunk. Remove lower branches and leaves. Let the top grow freely. Prune side branches to maintain the shape.
For A Trailing Or Cascading Look
Let some stems grow long, then trim the tips. This encourages branching along the stem. The plant will spill over the pot’s edge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Prune A Money Plant In Winter?
It’s best to avoid heavy pruning in winter. Light trimming of dead leaves is fine. Save major cuts for spring.
How Often Should I Prune My Money Plant?
Prune once or twice a year during the growing season. You can pinch tips monthly for bushier growth.
What If I Cut Too Much Off?
Don’t panic. Reduce watering and provide bright, indirect light. The plant should recover in a few weeks. New growth will appear from nodes.
Can I Prune A Money Plant That’s Flowering?
Yes, but be gentle. Flowers are delicate. Prune after blooming to avoid losing buds.
Does Pruning Help A Money Plant Grow Faster?
Indirectly, yes. Pruning redirects energy to remaining stems, promoting denser growth. It won’t speed up overall size, but it improves shape.
Final Tips For Success
Pruning a money plant is rewarding. Start small and observe how your plant responds. Over time, you’ll get a feel for what it needs.
Remember, the goal is a healthy, attractive plant. Don’t stress about perfection. Even a few strategic cuts make a big difference.
Now you know exactly how to prune a money plant. Grab your tools and give it a try. Your plant will thank you with lush, vibrant growth.
Happy pruning—and enjoy your thriving money plant!