How to Prune Camellias
As one of the top ten famous traditional Chinese flowers, camellias are deeply loved by horticulture enthusiasts for their beautiful blooms and evergreen characteristics. Scientific pruning not only shapes an elegant plant form but also significantly increases the number of flowers. This article will systematically analyze the full process of pruning camellias, from timing selection, technical essentials to post-pruning care.
Golden Time for Pruning Camellias
Basic Principles of Post-Flowering Pruning
The timing of pruning directly affects the plant's recovery and bud differentiation, with the best period being after the flowers fade and before new buds sprout. Early blooming varieties are recommended to be pruned in December, while late blooming varieties should be pruned in May, to avoid injuring flower buds. It is particularly important to note that pruning is strictly prohibited during the budding stage, as it may lead to a large number of buds falling off.
Detailed Techniques for Pruning Camellias
Pruning Techniques for Upright Varieties
Upright varieties like Dazhusa, Hongluzhen should use the shortening method: retain 2/3 of the branch length, remove the top 1/3, and simultaneously cut off 50% of the old leaves. For withered and diseased branches, implement a flat cutting process, keeping the cut 3-5 cm away from the main stem, and apply wound healing ointment to prevent infection.
Pruning Essentials for Weeping Plants
Pruning Plan for Weak and Thin Branch Clusters
Weak and thin branch clusters with a diameter less than 3mm need to be pruned back overall, removing side branches within 10 cm of the main stem branching point. For dense canopy plants, implement an open pruning method, retaining 8-10 main branches per square meter to ensure a light penetration rate of over 60%.
Key Points of Camellia Pruning and Care
Use pruning shears that have been disinfected with alcohol, and keep the cut at a 45-degree angle. Immediately after pruning, spray a carbendazim solution and avoid rain within 3 days. Apply a balanced nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium fertilizer (N-P-K=15-15-15) at 50g per square meter and water thoroughly. After new buds sprout, apply a potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution (0.2% concentration) once a week as a foliar spray.
Through scientific pruning management, the flowering quantity of adult camellias can be increased by 40%-60%. Mastering the characteristics of the variety and seasonal patterns, combined with precise pruning techniques, can create a flowering and lush camellia landscape.