Can I cut the long stems off?

Yes, trimming back long stems will encourage the plant to grow thicker and shorter.

Will it grow back if I prune it?

Absolutely. Pruning is the best way to keep your forget-me-not looking tidy and full.

Field forget-me-not: leggy growth, causes and fixes

Check these first

Assess the light levels in the current spot.
Check if the plant is leaning toward a window.
Look for signs of new growth at the base.

Likely causes

Insufficient light
Most likely
How to tell: The stems are long and thin with large gaps between leaves.
What to do: Move the plant to a brighter location with full sun or partial shade. Rotate the pot weekly so all sides get equal light.
Lack of pruning
Possible
How to tell: The plant is tall but not bushy, even with good light.
What to do: Pinch back the growing tips to encourage branching. This creates a fuller, more compact shape.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your field forget-me-not

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 rarely fatal, but it makes the plant prone to flopping over. It is a sign the plant is unhappy with its environment.

Stopping it coming back

Provide plenty of light and pinch back stems early in the season to promote bushy growth.

Field forget-me-not: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your field forget-me-not 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 cut the long stems off?: Yes, trimming back long stems will encourage the plant to grow thicker and shorter.
Will it grow back if I prune it?: Absolutely. Pruning is the best way to keep your forget-me-not looking tidy and full.

Why is my Field forget-me-not getting so leggy?