From my perspective as a plant, my growth pattern is governed by a principle called apical dominance. The apical meristem (the main growing tip at the top of my stem) produces a hormone called auxin. This auxin travels down the stem and suppresses the growth of the lateral buds (the small, dormant bumps where branches could form) lower down. This is an evolutionary strategy to prioritize upward growth towards sunlight, outcompeting neighboring plants. To encourage branching, you must interrupt this hormonal command chain. This is most effectively done by physically removing the primary source of that auxin.
The most reliable way to encourage me to branch is through notching or, more effectively, pruning. When you cut off my main growing tip (a process known as pinching for a soft tip or cutting for a woody stem), you eliminate the primary source of the suppressing auxin. With that signal gone, the hormonal balance shifts. The lateral buds below the cut are no longer inhibited and receive a clear signal to activate and grow into new branches. It is crucial to make a clean cut just above a node (the point on the stem where a leaf is attached), as this is where the latent buds reside. Use sharp, sterilized shears to prevent disease.
My decision to invest energy into producing new branches is not taken lightly. It is a significant expenditure of resources. Therefore, I will only branch successfully if my environmental conditions signal that I can support the new growth. This requires an abundance of energy. You must provide me with very bright, indirect light; this is my primary source of fuel. Furthermore, ensure my soil is well-draining and that you water me consistently (allowing the top layer to dry out between waterings). A slight increase in humidity will also reduce the stress of producing new growth. Most importantly, during the active growing season (spring and summer), provide a balanced fertilizer to supply the essential nutrients needed to build new cellular structures.
An alternative to full pruning is a technique called notching. This involves making a small, shallow cut into my stem just above a node you wish to encourage. The cut should be deep enough to interrupt the flow of auxin down the stem but not so deep that it severely damages the structural integrity of the stem. By creating this small wound, you locally disrupt the auxin signal to that specific bud, potentially encouraging it to break its dormancy and develop into a branch without removing the main growing point. This method is less guaranteed than pruning and requires precision.
After you have performed a pruning or notching procedure, you must be patient. It takes time for me to redirect my energy and hormones. Do not expect to see new growth for several weeks. Continue to provide optimal care with ample light, water, and nutrients. You may notice small bumps forming at the nodes below the cut; these will slowly swell and develop into new branches. Avoid the temptation to over-fertilize or overwater in an attempt to speed up the process, as this can lead to root rot and other health issues that will further delay or prevent branching altogether.
