Can I prune a leggy plant?

Yes, you can pinch back the top of the stem to encourage the plant to branch out. This helps create a bushier shape.

Does this plant need staking?

Because it grows tall, you may need to provide a stake to support the heavy flower tassels. This prevents the plant from bending or breaking.

Love lies bleeding: leggy growth, causes and fixes

Check these first

Move the plant to a brighter location immediately.
Check if other plants are shading your Amaranthus.
Rotate the pot every few days to encourage even growth.

Likely causes

Insufficient Light
Most likely
How to tell: The stems are long and weak with large gaps between the leaves. The plant leans heavily toward the nearest window or light source.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot that receives full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. If you are growing indoors, place it directly in a south facing window.
Crowding
Most likely
How to tell: The plants are thin and spindly because they are competing for light. They look tall but lack the bushy, full appearance typical of the species.
What to do: Thin out your seedlings or move plants further apart to give them space. Ensure each plant has enough room for air circulation and light exposure.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your love lies bleeding

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Legginess is a common response to low light and is not fatal, but it makes the plant prone to falling over. It is normal for young seedlings to stretch if they are not under strong lights.

Stopping it coming back

Provide full sun exposure from the moment the seeds germinate. Keep plants spaced out so they do not shade each other.

Love lies bleeding: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your love lies bleeding and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Can I prune a leggy plant?: Yes, you can pinch back the top of the stem to encourage the plant to branch out. This helps create a bushier shape.
Does this plant need staking?: Because it grows tall, you may need to provide a stake to support the heavy flower tassels. This prevents the plant from bending or breaking.

Why is my Love lies bleeding growing tall and thin?