How to Prune Hanging Morning Star
The hanging morning star, with its star-like blossoms, is deeply loved by flower enthusiasts. However, improper pruning or care often leads to withered branches and leaves. Mastering scientific pruning methods and emergency techniques can bring vitality back to this cascading flower waterfall.
Key Steps for Pruning Hanging Morning Star
Best Pruning Time Selection
Pruning in spring and autumn, during the peak growing season, combined with post-flowering pruning, yields the best results. At this time, the plant's metabolism is vigorous, and new buds can be seen within 3-5 days after pruning. In summer, with high temperatures, more branches and leaves should be retained for shading. In winter, during the dormancy period, only withered branches need to be lightly pruned.
Precise Pruning Four-Step Method
1. Cut the withered and yellow branches at a 45-degree angle, with the cut 0.5cm away from the healthy bud point. 2. Thin out overlapping branches, retaining main branches with a spacing of more than 3cm. 3. Cut back the overly long branches to 80% of the overall crown height. 4. Remove old leaves within 10cm of the bottom to enhance ventilation.
Shaping and Maintenance Techniques
The hanging shape requires retaining 3-5 main vines, each with 3 branching points. Regularly rotate the pot to ensure even sunlight exposure, and using aluminum wire traction can shape the plant into a waterfall-like form.
Emergency Plan for Withered Branches and Leaves
Three-Step Diagnostic Method
1. Observe the leaves: Edge burning is often caused by excessive fertilizer, while the entire leaf wilting is usually due to lack of water. 2. Check the roots: Black rot indicates waterlogging, while shrinkage suggests a lack of water. 3. Inspect the new buds: Necrosis of the growth point indicates damage from chemicals or frost.
Graduated Treatment Measures
Mild Withering: - Cut off 30% of the damaged parts. - Soak the pot in water for 2 hours. - Bag the plant to maintain humidity for 3 days.
Severe Withering: - Retain 5cm of the base and cut back heavily. - Replace with disinfected sand for cutting propagation. - Use a root stimulator to promote new roots.
Environmental Control Points
Maintain a recovery temperature of 18-25°C, combined with a 60% shade net to slow down the growth. Use a nutrient solution with an EC value of 1.2-1.5mS/cm, and adopt the "wet-dry alternation" method for watering.
Through systematic pruning and scientific rejuvenation, the hanging morning star usually shows new buds within 2-3 weeks. During maintenance, pay attention to supplementing trace elements monthly, regularly check the leaf backs to prevent red spider mites, allowing this starry flower to bloom continuously.