Where to Cut a Pandan Stem

Pre-Cutting Culture

• To get stems to cutting size, gardeners in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 11 through 13 can grow fragrant pandan in sunny landscapes with well-drained, moisture-retentive soil. Fertilize pandan with a 3-inch layer of organic compost each year. Ideal temperatures for pandan growth range from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with damage occurring when temperatures drop below 50 degrees. In cooler climates, pandan shines as an indoor-outdoor houseplant in a well-drained container with porous soil. Grow in bright indoor light during winter and a shaded outdoor area in summer. Water regularly but lightly; pandan is susceptible to overwatering.

Form and Size Control

• Pandan has distinct landscape forms dependent on whether its side shoots stay attached. Left intact, the small shrub grows 3 to 5 feet high and spreads up to 15 feet wide through side shoot growth. With shoots removed, unpruned pandan forms an erect, multi-stemmed shrub reaching 6 to 15 feet tall with large aerial prop roots. For landscaping purposes on either form, cut pandan stems to whatever height you prefer. Pandan has tiny tips prickles, so wear gloves, protective clothing and eyewear. Use sharp bypass pruners, and sterilize your blades with disinfectant before and after you prune.

Propagation and Multiplication

• Pandan reproduces by side shoots, but tip cuttings also root easily. Use sterilized pruners and cut the stem 1 to 2 feet down from the tip. Remove the lower leaves, and plant the tip cutting in well-drained, perlite-based potting mix. No rooting hormones are needed. Keep the mix moist, but don't overwater or your cutting may rot. To encourage heavy side shoot growth, cut pandan stems down to 8 to 12 inches above the ground. Numerous side shoots appear in approximately two months. When side shoots reach 12 to 15 inches tall, remove shoots with aerial roots and transplant to gardens or pots.

Fragrant Foliage Harvests

• If larger harvests are in your plans, wait until pandan's lower leaves turn yellow and dry about 12 months after planting. Cut the stem back with sterilized pruners to 8 to 12 inches above the ground. The next harvest arrives in about eight months. If you're only interested in a dish or two, harvest individual pandan leaves anywhere on the plant. Crush or bruise the leaves to release their fragrance and taste. Add them to rice or other dishes. Pandan adds pleasant aroma, flavor and coloring. Remove the leaves after cooking; don't eat them.