Cutting back a dumb cane

triscka1

Hello Forum

My dumb cane has grown too big and I would like to cut it back.  Can I just cut off the larger of the two stems near to the base (around 6" up), can I just cut it off around 10" from the top above a pair of leaves or do I have to take it out the container and split them?  Also, would now be an ok time to do this? 

Thanks for your help   

JennyJ

Wherever you cut it, it will most likely sprout new shoots from just below the cut. I think I would take that thicker older stem down to about 2 inches above the compost. You could have a go at rooting the top part as a cutting if you want another one - they root easily in water, or in ompost with a plastic bag over to reduce the chances of wilting. They also tend to put up new stems from below the compost, like your smaller stem and cutting the old stem back might encourage more.

Dovefromabove

Remember that the sap is toxic and can cause swelling … so treat with respect. 

triscka1

Thank you very much JennyJ and Dovefromabove.

So sorry for the delay in replying and thanking you - life's a bit hectic at the moment!