Pruning Leggy Polka Dot Plants for Bushier Growth

The Issue

A polka dot plant (Hypoestes) in bright light has become tall and leggy with weak stems, full only at the top. The tallest stem requires staking. It blooms frequently with tiny purple flowers.

Solution: Regular Pruning

Polka dot plants naturally get leggy. The only fix is pruning back regularly. As long as roots and stems are healthy, new growth will emerge just below each cut. Pruning is painful but necessary and won't harm the plant.

Side Note on Corn Plant

The owner's corn plant (Dracaena) roots are healthy (whitish, not mushy). Slow growth is likely due to repotting, not weather.