Since drastic pruning stresses a plant, place it in a bright spot out of direct sun for a week or so, then return it to its former home.

Since you have reduced the amount of foliage on the plant, it will probably require less water than before pruning, so adjust accordingly.

You should see new growth within a week or two. Once new shoots have two sets of leaves, pinch out growing tips to encourage branching, and continue doing this on subsequent branches.

Some plants will resprout even if you cut the entire plant back to its base; however, removing all the foliage is stressful to a plant. If you have just one central stem, you may need to resort to such severe pruning and hope the plant is strong enough to recover.

Photography by Sabin Gratz/National Gardening Association