Do we need to prune Moringa plants as well?

Moringa plants can grow into medium sized trees. So frequent pruning can reduce the potential to grow tall. That is exactly why I prune Moringa plants regularly. This plant in my backyard can be called as a shrub with a thick stem. It would have grown at least 30 feet by this time, but for the frequent pruning whenever it tries to overgrow the compound fence. There are several reasons for regular pruning. First of all I do not want the branches growing to neighbour’s compound and disturb them with falling leaves and twigs. Secondly, if this Moringa grows too tall, it will be difficult to pluck leaves to prepare tasty dishes whenever we need it. Another reason for pruning is when there is infestation of leaves with too many insects, usually some varieties of ants causing the leaves to become yellow and fall down.

Downside of frequent pruning is that this Moringa plant is yet to bear fruits. We at home are more fond of dishes with leaves rather than those with Moringa fruits, popularly known as drumstick! I have couple of other plants as well, growing in 18 inches garden pots which are also pruned regularly. All the three were grown from Moringa seeds bought online. Somehow I have not been successful with stems brought from elsewhere and planted, though that is the common way of propagation in this region. You can also see my precious apple plant growing nearby. Curry leaves and few other plants in garden pots are also there in the background.