| I have a Hypoestes "pink select" with three stems that is only growing taller, it is aproximatly 2ft tall. It is not growing fuller. It is in a 6' pot. I have tried to clip a stem and put it in the soil, but it does not take. As you can tell I am very much a novice, please help. I love its coloring. |
| Hypoestes, also known as Freckle Face or Pink Polka Dot plant can reach 1'-2' tall and will only be a bushy plant if you pinch it back while it's young. You can begin to renovate your plant now by pinching back the growing tips on all three stems. This should force new growth along the stems. As new shoots develop 2 sets of leaves, pinch them back, too. Eventually you'll have a fuller plant. Or, if you're really adventurous, cut the stems down to about 8" and pinch the new growth as it develops along the stems. Your plant will look odd for a few months but eventually you'll have a bushy plant. If you decide to cut the stems down drastically, you can try rooting them in separate pots. Use only the top 6" of each stem and remove all but two sets of leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and place it 2" deep in moistened potting soil. Keep the soil moist but not soggy wet. If your cuttings root successfully they'll produce new leaves and stems. If not, you can try again. Good luck with your Hypoestes! |
