Use clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors
Trim in spring or early summer
Remove dead, damaged, or diseased stems first
Cut just above a leaf node or branch junction
Shorten long, leggy stems to encourage branching
Remove no more than one-third of the plant at a time
Cut back any stems that make the plant lopsided
Remove crowded inner growth to improve airflow
Pinch off small new tips for a bushier shape
Let cut ends dry and callus before watering heavily
Discard trimmed material or propagate healthy cuttings
Avoid trimming during cold or dormant periods