How to prune ground cherry

Tip-pinch 2–3 weeks after transplanting outdoors; remove dead growth as needed through the season. Pinch out the main growing tip above a leaf node when the plant has 4–6 true leaves to encourage branching. Remove yellowing lower leaves throughout the season to improve airflow and reduce disease pressure.

Once at establishment; deadleafing as needed through the growing season. Ground Cherry is typically grown as an annual, so heavy structural pruning is unnecessary. Pinching the growing tip once when the plant is young encourages a bushier habit and more fruit-bearing laterals. Remove any dead or diseased growth as you spot it. Beyond that, little intervention is needed.

Pinch out the main growing tip above a leaf node when the plant has 4–6 true leaves to encourage branching. Remove yellowing lower leaves throughout the season to improve airflow and reduce disease pressure.