Growli
Let's go

Pruning guide

How to prune fittonia

Best time
Spring through summer; pinch as needed year-round
How often
Every 3–4 weeks during the growing season; as needed in winter
Technique
Pinch stem tips between thumb and forefinger just above a leaf node, or snip with small scissors. Remove any flower spikes as they emerge by snipping at the base. Cut leggy stems back by up to half to encourage branching from lower nodes.

More fittonia care

Pruning fittonia — FAQ

When should I prune fittonia?

Spring through summer; pinch as needed year-round. Pinch stem tips between thumb and forefinger just above a leaf node, or snip with small scissors. Remove any flower spikes as they emerge by snipping at the base. Cut leggy stems back by up to half to encourage branching from lower nodes.

How often does fittonia need pruning?

Every 3–4 weeks during the growing season; as needed in winter. Fittonia (nerve plant) benefits from regular pinching to stay bushy and compact. Without it, stems become long and leggy with few leaves. Pinch out the growing tips every few weeks during the growing season. Flowering stalks are insignificant and best removed to redirect energy to the foliage.

How do you prune fittonia?

Pinch stem tips between thumb and forefinger just above a leaf node, or snip with small scissors. Remove any flower spikes as they emerge by snipping at the base. Cut leggy stems back by up to half to encourage branching from lower nodes.