Should I prune the long, leggy stems?

Yes, you can prune them to encourage a bushier shape. Make your cut just above a leaf node to stimulate new growth.

Will the leggy stems fill back in?

No, the existing bare sections will not grow new leaves. Pruning is the best way to improve the look of the plant.

Silver Sword Philodendron: leggy growth, causes and fixes

Check these first

Observe the distance between the leaves on the stem.
Check how many hours of bright, indirect light the plant receives daily.
Inspect the plant to see if it is leaning toward a window.

Likely causes

Insufficient light
Most likely
How to tell: The stems are long and thin with large gaps between the leaves. The plant may also lean heavily toward the nearest light source.
What to do: Move your plant to a spot with bright, indirect light. If you cannot provide natural light, place it under a grow light for 10 to 12 hours a day.
Lack of support
Most likely
How to tell: The plant looks floppy and struggles to hold its leaves upright as it grows taller. It is a vining plant that naturally wants to climb.
What to do: Install a moss pole or a sturdy stake in the pot. Gently tie the main stem to the support using soft plant tape to encourage upward growth.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your silver sword philodendron

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 older stems to lose some lower leaves as the plant matures. Worry if the new growth is consistently thin and weak.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant in bright, indirect light and provide a climbing support early on.

Silver Sword Philodendron: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your silver sword philodendron 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

Should I prune the long, leggy stems?: Yes, you can prune them to encourage a bushier shape. Make your cut just above a leaf node to stimulate new growth.
Will the leggy stems fill back in?: No, the existing bare sections will not grow new leaves. Pruning is the best way to improve the look of the plant.

Why is my Silver Sword Philodendron getting so leggy?