Can I prune back leggy stems?

Yes, you can trim back long, weak stems to encourage the plant to branch out. Use clean shears and cut just above a leaf node.

Will my plant recover its shape?

The existing stems will not shrink back, but new growth will be more compact if you provide better light. You may need to stake the plant until new, stronger growth appears.

Perennial sowthistle: leggy growth, causes and fixes

Check these first

Observe how many hours of direct sunlight the plant receives.
Check the distance between the leaf nodes on the stem.
Look for signs of leaning toward a window or light source.

Likely causes

Insufficient light
Most likely
How to tell: The stems stretch out and become thin with large gaps between the leaves. The plant may also lean heavily toward the nearest light source.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily. If you are growing it indoors, place it in a south facing window or under a strong grow light.
Excessive nitrogen fertilizer
Possible
How to tell: The plant produces rapid, weak, and floppy growth that cannot support its own weight. The foliage may look very green but the stems remain soft.
What to do: Stop all fertilization for the rest of the season. Flush the soil with plenty of water to help wash away excess nutrients.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your perennial sowthistle

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 only a problem if the stems are so weak they collapse or the plant stops producing new leaves. Some stretching is normal during the early spring growth spurt.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your sowthistle in a bright, sunny spot and avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers.

Perennial sowthistle: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your perennial sowthistle 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 back leggy stems?: Yes, you can trim back long, weak stems to encourage the plant to branch out. Use clean shears and cut just above a leaf node.
Will my plant recover its shape?: The existing stems will not shrink back, but new growth will be more compact if you provide better light. You may need to stake the plant until new, stronger growth appears.

Why is my perennial sowthistle looking so leggy?