To touch on potential non-pruning comments:
1. Between the shortened daylight hours and extra-overcast weather as of late, this AV hasn’t been getting as much light as normal. I just got a grow light to help supplement things.
2. I’m aware the flowers ought to be removed (they are very limp and a couple are browning; they’re quite old). Thankfully I have budling stems on their way out from the crown 🙂
Okay, onto the pruning stuff.
Should I cull any of these leaves? This AV has been producing a LOT of new leaves in the center, even with the baby flower stems beginning to grow to replace the flowers that have faded (this AV was so full of blossoms a few weeks ago).
Note that the outer leaves are more yellow-tinged in person… I don’t know why my camera will not pick up the true difference. But all the central leaves are a deep, healthy green, and then the outer skirt is notably paler and more yellowed with age. They’re also a little less firm, but they don’t feel mushy or like they’re truly dying off yet. They all look green in the photos, but there’s more of a discrepancy in real life.
I’d be interested in propagation, too. I’ve never done it before, but I assume the success rate is better when the cut leaf hasn’t reached death’s doorstep – so maybe I should take them now?
Thank you!
by -DTE-
1 Comment
Yes, this plant needs a good grooming sesh. Removing old outer AV leaves allows the crown to grow properly. This plant is gorgeous, and looks like you’ve been taking great care of it otherwise. It’s in bloom too, so you’re getting something right! I do fresh soil changes every 6-8 months and that’s when I do my grooming. It’s up to you how much you want to take off, but start with the oldest leaves and work inward. I give mine a little bath if they’re dusty (during repotting.) I rinse them under lukewarm water and very gently blot leaves with paper towel. I use q-tips to dry the crown. You don’t want to leave moisture in the crown and never put the plant in sunlight or under grow lights while it’s wet. Allow it to dry completely before putting it back in the light. I have extremely soft bristle makeup and toothbrush to clean the leaves also. Bathing is a personal choice, some growers do, some don’t. As for propagating, choose leaves that are mature but not oldest or yellowing. Again, your AV is gorgeous! The foliage looks very healthy! What are your care habits?