When to prune plants? A complete guide to pruning in indoor cultivation
Pruning is one of the key tasks for keeping plants healthy, productive, and with controlled growth. Knowing when to prune plants is essential to avoid compromising their development and to ensure the best results, especially in indoor cultivation where every decision counts.
In this guide, we explain when to prune indoor plants, the most common pruning techniques, and what tools you need to do it precisely and safely.
Why is pruning important for plants?
Pruning not only improves the aesthetic of the plants, but also promotes airflow, light penetration, and the growth of new branches. In indoor cultivation, where space is limited and conditions are controlled, proper pruning increases the efficiency of the grow and the final yield.
Key benefits of pruning:
- Improves plant health
- Promotes lateral growth
- Increases production
- Prevents shaded and poorly ventilated areas
- Reduces the risk of pests or diseases
When to prune indoor plants
The most suitable time to prune depends on several factors: the type of plant, its life cycle, and the goal of the pruning. However, in general terms, these are the best times to prune indoor plants:
1. Pruning during the vegetative growth phase
The growth phase is the ideal time to carry out most pruning, as the plants have enough energy to recover. During this period, you can remove lower leaves, unnecessary branches, or even apply advanced pruning techniques such as topping or FIM.
*Recommended for: encouraging horizontal growth and controlling height.
2. Avoid pruning during flowering
During the flowering phase, plants are focused on flower production, so pruning can cause stress and reduce yield. Only very light or maintenance pruning is recommended, removing dry or diseased leaves.
*Not recommended for structural pruning.
3. Preventive or maintenance pruning
In permanent or long-term grows, you can perform light maintenance pruning from time to time to remove damaged leaves or improve ventilation.
*Ideal for maintaining overall crop health.
Most common types of pruning in indoor cultivation
Below we explain the most commonly used pruning methods to control plant development indoors.
Topping (apical pruning)
This involves cutting the main stem to encourage the growth of two lateral branches. This helps to control height and improve light distribution.
FIM pruning
Similar to topping, but part of the shoot is left. It can result in more than two new branches. It is ideal for making the most of grow space.
Lower leaf pruning
Removes leaves that do not receive light to redirect energy to the upper zones.
Controlled defoliation
Selective removal of large leaves to improve light penetration and airflow. It is usually done during growth or just before flowering.
Cultivation tools and accessories you need to care for your plants
Tools recommended for safe and effective pruning
Having the right tools makes the difference between effective pruning and pruning that can damage the plant. Some of the most used in indoor cultivation are:
Precision pruning scissors
Precision pruning scissors, and straight-tip pruning scissors, are ideal for clean cuts on thin stems or leaves without damaging the rest of the plant.
Curved-tip scissors
Curved-tip pruning scissors make it easier to access hard-to-reach areas without stressing the plant structure.
Light gardening gloves
To protect your hands and avoid contaminating open cuts.
Disinfectant spray or isopropyl alcohol
Sprayers are essential for disinfecting tools before and after each use, preventing infections.
In our store you can find a complete pruning kit for indoor cultivation, ideal for both beginners and experienced growers.
Extra tips for properly pruning your indoor plants
- Always disinfect your tools before use
- Do not prune more than 20–30% of the plant at once
- Observe the plant’s response after pruning before intervening again
- Combine pruning with techniques like LST (Low Stress Training) to maximize results without stress
When is it best to prune indoor plants?
Pruning is an essential tool in indoor cultivation. Knowing when to prune plants, and which pruning scissors to use, will help you improve their structure, avoid humidity or disease problems, and achieve superior yields.