Can I prune leggy stems?

Yes, trimming back the top growth will encourage the plant to branch out and become fuller. Do this in the spring.

Does it need fertilizer?

Usually no, but if the soil is very poor, a light application of balanced fertilizer in spring can help it grow stronger.

Broad-leaved willowherb: leggy growth, causes and fixes

Check these first

Observe how many hours of direct sun the plant gets.
Check if nearby plants are shading it out.
Look for signs of stretching in the new growth.

Likely causes

Insufficient light
Most likely
How to tell: The stems are long, thin, and pale, with leaves spaced far apart. The plant leans heavily toward the nearest light source.
What to do: Move the plant to a location with more direct or bright indirect light. If it is in deep shade, it will continue to stretch.
Overcrowding
Possible
How to tell: The plant is thin and weak because it is competing with neighbors for light and nutrients. It may look spindly compared to others.
What to do: Thin out surrounding plants to give your willowherb more room to breathe. Ensure it has at least 12 inches of space from other large plants.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your broad-leaved willowherb

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 not a death sentence, but it makes the plant prone to flopping over. It is normal for the plant to grow tall, but it should remain sturdy.

Stopping it coming back

Place the plant in a spot that receives at least partial sun throughout the day. Prune back long stems in early spring to encourage bushier growth.

Broad-leaved willowherb: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your broad-leaved willowherb 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.

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Questions people ask

Can I prune leggy stems?: Yes, trimming back the top growth will encourage the plant to branch out and become fuller. Do this in the spring.
Does it need fertilizer?: Usually no, but if the soil is very poor, a light application of balanced fertilizer in spring can help it grow stronger.

Why is my Broad-leaved willowherb growing so leggy?