Can I cut my leggy Myrtle back to the main stem?

Yes, but do it gradually. Remove about one third of the growth at a time to avoid shocking the plant.

Will the leggy stems fill back in?

They will not fill in where the leaves have already fallen off. You are better off pruning those stems to encourage new, dense growth.

Common Myrtle: leggy growth, causes and fixes

Check these first

Move the plant closer to a window.
Rotate the pot every week so all sides get light.
Trim back the longest stems to promote fullness.

Likely causes

Low Light Levels
Possible
How to tell: The stems are long and thin with large gaps between the leaves. The plant is stretching out to find a better light source.
What to do: Move the plant to a brighter location immediately. You can prune back the long, thin stems to encourage the plant to grow bushier once it has better light.
Lack of Pruning
Possible
How to tell: The plant is tall and sparse because it has never been shaped. Myrtle naturally wants to grow upward, and without trimming, it loses its dense, shrubby look.
What to do: Prune the tips of the branches in early spring to encourage side branching. Regular light trimming throughout the season will keep it compact and full.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common myrtle

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

It is normal for a plant to stretch slightly during the dark winter months. Worry if the stems become so weak they can no longer support the weight of the leaves.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant in bright light and prune it lightly and regularly to maintain a dense shape.

Common Myrtle: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common myrtle 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 cut my leggy Myrtle back to the main stem?: Yes, but do it gradually. Remove about one third of the growth at a time to avoid shocking the plant.
Will the leggy stems fill back in?: They will not fill in where the leaves have already fallen off. You are better off pruning those stems to encourage new, dense growth.

Why is my Common Myrtle growing tall and leggy?