How to Prune Queen of the Night Plant

The Queen of the Night, also known as the night-blooming cereus, is a popular plant among garden enthusiasts for its exotic flowers that bloom only at night. However, like any other plant, it requires regular maintenance, including pruning. Pruning helps to promote growth, control the size of the plant, and maintain its health. Here are some tips on how to prune Queen of the Night Plant.

1. Prune After Blooming

The Queen of the Night Plant blooms only once a year, typically in the summer. After blooming, it is advisable to prune the plant to encourage new growth. The best time to prune the plant is in early fall when the weather is cool. Pruning after blooming ensures the plant's energy goes towards new growth and not to the dead flowers.

2. Cut Back Old Growth

To promote new growth, remove old and dead growth using a sharp pair of pruning shears. Look for stems that have lost their color or are no longer producing new growth. Cut these stems back to the main stem, making a clean cut just above the joint. Be sure not to damage the surrounding healthy stems. Removing old growth promotes a healthy plant and allows for more light to enter to promote new growth.

3. Keep the Plant Compact

The Queen of the Night Plant can grow up to 20 feet tall in its natural habitat. However, in a home garden or container, pruning helps to control its size and promote more compact growth. When pruning, cut back any excessively long stems to promote bushy growth, resulting in a more compact plant. If the plant is in a container, consider repotting it to give it more room to grow.

4. Remove Suckers

Suckers are small shoots that emerge from the root system of the plant. They compete with the main stem for nutrients and can weaken the plant. Remove suckers as soon as they emerge, especially during the growth season. Make a clean cut just above the soil line using a sharp pair of pruning shears.

5. Prune for Shape

Pruning can help shape the Queen of the Night Plant. To shape the plant, cut back branches that are going in the wrong direction or are crossing other stems. Cut back the branches to the desired shape, making clean cuts just above the joint. Pruning for shape can help the plant look fuller and more aesthetically pleasing.

In conclusion, pruning is an essential part of maintaining a healthy Queen of the Night Plant. By cutting back old and dead growth, controlling its size, removing suckers, and pruning for shape, you can successfully promote new growth and maintain the plant's health. Remember to use sharp pruning shears and make clean cuts above the joints to avoid damaging the healthy stems. With proper pruning, your Queen of the Night Plant will thrive and produce beautiful flowers year after year.