To prune violet plants, focus on removing old leaves and spent blooms to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.
Here's a breakdown of how to prune your violet plant:
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Remove Bottom Leaves Regularly: Every month, remove three or more of the oldest leaves from the bottom of the plant. This allows light and air to reach the center of the plant and provides space for new leaves to grow.
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Deadhead Spent Flowers: Regularly remove any dead or dying flowers. This directs the plant's energy towards producing new blooms and leaves. Simply pinch off the spent flower stems near the base.
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How to Remove Leaves: Gently wiggle the leaf stem (petiole) until it snaps off cleanly from the main stem. Avoid pulling or tearing, as this can damage the plant. You can also use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the leaf stem close to the base.
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Why Prune? Pruning removes old or damaged foliage, which can harbor pests and diseases. It also improves air circulation, reduces the risk of fungal problems, and encourages a fuller, healthier plant with more blooms. Removing older leaves also makes the plant more aesthetically pleasing.
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Frequency: Aim to prune lightly on a regular basis rather than doing a large, infrequent pruning. This will help the plant maintain its shape and health.
