Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) Practice Exam

You have an outdoor succulent that has become long and spindly. What combination of actions is suggested to improve its condition?

1. Submerge the plant in warm water with dish detergent

2. Pinch back the plant

3. Add clay to increase soil density

4. Use artificial light to supplement natural light

The correct answer is: Pinch back the plant

Pinching back the plant is an effective way to improve the condition of a long and spindly succulent. This technique involves removing the tips of the growing stems, which encourages the plant to branch out and become bushier. When succulents become leggy, it typically indicates they are stretching for light, and pinching them back helps to direct energy towards developing fuller growth. Additionally, it can stimulate the plant to produce more leaves and stems, creating a more compact and aesthetically pleasing form. While other options may seem beneficial, they do not directly address the primary issue of leggy growth. Adding clay to the soil could potentially change its drainage characteristics but won’t resolve the underlying issue of light deprivation leading to elongated growth. Using artificial light might help if the plant is not getting enough natural light, but it doesn’t directly correct the current spindly appearance. Submerging the plant in warm water with dish detergent is not a suitable treatment for this problem and may harm the plant instead. Therefore, pinching back is the most appropriate action to take for improving the health and appearance of a spindly succulent.