Here are some small experiences on how to prune a燕子掌 properly and the plant cultivation methods related to its maintenance, read on!
Also known as the Sedum tree, the燕子掌 is a type of succulent plant that stays green all year round. It has fleshy leaves, a graceful plant shape, and its leaf edges can turn red under sufficient sunlight. As it grows relatively fast, it requires frequent pruning to prevent the plant from becoming disheveled and losing its ornamental value.
Pruning in spring to promote new branches
When pruning a燕子掌, it is important to choose the right time to minimize damage to the plant. This is usually done during its growing season, such as in spring. Pruning at this time can promote the growth of new branches, and the wounds also heal easily.
Remove diseased and weak branches
First, prune away the diseased and weak branches on the燕子掌 plant, as these not only affect the appearance but also compete with other branches for nutrients. Removing them allows the healthy branches to grow better.
Thin out the inner chaotic branches
Inside the燕子掌, various branches often grow out horizontally, which can affect the overall ornamental effect. Moreover, dense inner branches can lead to poor ventilation, affecting the plant's growth. Therefore, it is necessary to thin these inner branches by pruning along the direction of the branch growth, making the plant more orderly and attractive.
Prune into a desired shape
How to prune a燕子掌 properly
After two rounds of pruning, there are generally no issues. You can prune the plant according to your aesthetic preferences. Its leaves are relatively thick, so when pruning, try to keep the plant on the heavier side, ultimately presenting a semi-circular or semi-elliptical shape.
Post-pruning maintenance
Less watering
After pruning, the燕子掌 is more vulnerable, so try to water it less. Place it in a cool, well-ventilated area to allow it to heal the wounds slowly. Once new branches and leaves have grown, you can gradually resume normal watering.
Less sunlight
After pruning, the燕子掌 should be kept away from sunlight, as it cannot be watered, and sunlight can cause the stored water in the plant to evaporate quickly, which is not conducive to the recovery and later growth of the燕子掌.
Less fertilizing
After pruning, do not fertilize immediately. At this time, the plant's roots absorb nutrients, which cannot be transported to the branches and leaves, leading to enlarged and rotting roots. Only after new branches and leaves have grown should you fertilize the燕子掌 to promote growth.
Pruning a燕子掌 is actually very simple. Just remember to water less, expose to less sunlight, and fertilize less after pruning, and this will not affect its growth!
Here are the methods for how to prune a燕子掌 properly and the maintenance methods related to it, which can be used as a reference suggestion.