NABAT · THE ILLUSTRATED GUIDE

A thoughtful cut.

Know what to keep, where to cut and why old damage needs more than a tidy edge.

Watch & understand

Inspect before cutting

A stem, a node and a growing point have different roles. Choose the cut before lifting the tool.

How it works Pruning changes which buds can grow; it does not create energy. Healthy remaining leaves, roots and sufficient light support regrowth.

UNDERSTAND THE TIP

A growing tip influences buds below

The shoot tip helps suppress some side buds through hormonal signals: apical dominance. Removing it can allow a lower bud to grow, but leaves are still needed to supply energy.

This example is a branching vine. Removing the growing point of a single-stem palm can kill it; always check how your plant grows before pruning.

Watch & understand

Green tissue still works

Tidying a damaged leaf changes its shape, not the cause of the injury. Keep checking the plant.

How it works A leaf makes sugars that support roots and new growth. Keeping healthy green area is usually more useful than removing every imperfect leaf.

A SYMPTOM, NOT A VERDICT

Brown edges need a cause check

An old brown edge records damage already done. Compare old and new leaves, inspect both surfaces and check moisture, light and feeding before choosing a treatment.

This example tidies a dry damaged margin. It does not diagnose pests or disease, and it does not restore dead tissue.

A little more detail

Clean tools between plants, especially when infection is suspected. Bag affected waste when appropriate and monitor the plant. Pruning is not a substitute for pest identification or correcting root conditions.

From the story to your plant