When it's time to prune those houseplants

For pruning houseplants, you need a sharp pair of garden shears – usually better than household scissors. Photo: Monique Wustenhagen/dpa

Spring has arrived in the northern hemisphere, with the days getting longer, warmer and brighter. Not only are we humans awakening to the new season, but indoor plants are also stretching towards the sun.

However, they often get in their own way, something which can also happen in tropical countries. Is the foliage too thick, casting a shadow on the plant so it doesn't get enough light? If so, this is precisely the right moment for some pruning.