Should I prune the dead branches right back?
I bought this plant from the “in need of TLC” section of my local garden centre back in December. Since bringing home she’s doing so well and has tons of new growth coming out the top, and even out some of the ‘dead’ looking branches. I’m really happy with her in general but am not sure what I should be doing with the bottom branches to encourage more growth here. One or two of them have little green shoots appearing, but for the others should I be pruning off the side shoots to encourage growth, waiting a bit longer for spring, or even cutting these back to the main stem/trunk themselves? Help and advice greatly appreciated! 🪴 #WeepingFig #FicusGang #FicusFam #VarigatedFicusBenjamina
1ft to light, direct
8” pot with drainage
Last watered 3 weeks ago
8
Best Answer
Basically what @RJG is describing is that when you cut the side branches, it will redirect growth up. If you were to trim off the top of the main stems, it would redirect growth lower and outward. If you were to cut the dead branches back, you won’t have empty twigs with two leaves at the end. They can grow closer to the center, making it more full. Cutting off the top where it has new growth will encourage it to put more energy into the new growth at the bottom. Either way the plant will be healthy, it’s up to you what you want it to look like.
Can I just say that I love the idea of garden canters having an “in need to TLC” section?