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Tradescantia, commonly known as wandering Jew, is a popular houseplant appreciated for its vibrant foliage and easy care. Proper trimming before repotting helps promote healthy growth and prevents the plant from becoming too leggy or crowded.
Tools Needed for Trimming
- Sharp pruning shears or scissors
- Disinfectant or rubbing alcohol
- Gloves (optional)
Steps for Proper Trimming
Begin by sterilizing your cutting tools with disinfectant to prevent disease transmission. Carefully examine your Tradescantia and identify dead, damaged, or overgrown stems.
Step 1: Remove Dead or Damaged Stems
Using your sterilized shears, cut away any stems that appear brown, wilted, or broken. Make clean cuts just above a leaf node or at the base of the stem.
Step 2: Trim Leggy or Overgrown Growth
Identify stems that have become long and sparse. Trim these back to encourage bushier growth. Cut just above a leaf node to promote new shoots.
Additional Tips for Trimming
- Always use sharp tools to make clean cuts.
- Remove stems at an angle to prevent water from pooling on the cut surface.
- Avoid trimming more than one-third of the plant at a time.
After Trimming: Preparing for Repotting
Once trimming is complete, allow the cut ends to callus for a few hours. Then, prepare a pot with fresh, well-draining soil. Gently remove the plant from its current pot, loosen the roots, and place it into the new container. Water thoroughly and place in bright, indirect light.