It MAY encourage new submerged leaves but then again if it's trying to reach
the surface it more than likely will keep trying to do so. If you're gonna
remove it do so at the lowest point possible. If you cut it higher up, the
remaining stalk will start to decay and could possibly introduce some sort
of infection into the plant as the old stalk rots. Plus, the stalk sticking
up will detract from the look of the rest of the plant. Be sure to use a
sharp knife or scissors so you get a clean cut and don't bruise the stalk
and leave a weak spot for disease to enter.

in article , Sharp Tooth at
wrote on 8/13/03 8:17 AM:

Will trimming the shoot that is heading to the surface encourage the
growth of more submerged leaves? Should I cut the shoot at where it
comes out of the gravel or higher up?