Nandina Pruning: Stair-Step Method for Leggy Plants

Nandina, "heavenly bamboo," has jointed multiple stalks vaguely resembling bamboo but never mistaken for fishing pole material! Two major landscape pluses: tolerates shade well, bright red berries appear for Christmas.

Old plants or those in shade become "leggy"—lots of foliage high on spindly stems. Correct at almost any time, noting pruning during flowering removes potential berries.

Easiest: "stair-step" stems. Cut couple at 12 inches, some at 18, some at 24, etc. Stalks sprout new foliage at each level, plant more balanced top-to-bottom.