How to prune a rubber plant that is too tall
Let's talk about how to prune a rubber plant that is too tall and the small experiences of plant cultivation with a pruning method illustration, the details are as follows:
In spring, the rubber plant grows vigorously, constantly producing new branches and leaves. This is also a good time for pruning and topping. Proper pruning of the rubber plant can effectively promote the growth of lateral branches, making the whole plant more full and attractive. If not pruned in time, the rubber plant will grow upwards unstoppably, the trunk will become thin and tall, and it will lose its aesthetic appeal. However, pruning a rubber plant also requires mastering some techniques; random pruning may not achieve the desired effect and may even prevent new buds from growing.
So, what issues should be considered when pruning and topping a rubber plant?
Firstly, the position for topping should be chosen well, not too high; otherwise, the entire plant shape will look uncoordinated and affect its ornamental value. If chosen too low, because the lower branches are less likely to sprout, it may result in no buds growing after topping. Therefore, choosing an appropriate topping point can help with later sprouting and shaping.
Usually, for larger rubber plants, leaving 50-60 centimeters of the main trunk is sufficient, and a few branches can be left at the bottom to avoid too much empty space. If the overall shape of the rubber plant is not good, you can also use the method of cutting the top, leaving 20-30 centimeters of the main trunk, and it's best to leave 1-2 branches to prevent the lower main trunk from not sprouting lateral buds.
For smaller rubber plants, we can remove the top bud when they grow to 30-50 centimeters in height, eliminating the apical dominance, so that new lateral buds will grow below the wound. Otherwise, the rubber plant may continue to grow as a single trunk, and if it gets too tall, the trunk may bend and collapse. In summary, the main goal is to keep the main trunk of the rubber plant a certain thickness to support the growth of the upper branches and leaves and shape a full form. However, personal preferences differ, and the pruning position can also be adjusted according to one's aesthetic taste.
After topping, it is important to protect the wound of the rubber plant, avoid spraying water on the wound, and apply some fungicides, plant ash, or wound healing agents to prevent bacterial invasion. Also, watering should be controlled, not too wet to prevent root rot from overly moist soil. A freshly pruned and topped rubber plant should not be placed in strong sunlight immediately; instead, it should be kept in a diffused light area for a while, and then moved to a sunny place after new buds have grown.
How to prune a rubber plant that is too tall
Spring is also a good time to repot and change the soil. So, can a newly repotted rubber plant be topped? Yes, it can. This usually does not cause any problems. Topping after repotting can reduce the consumption of nutrients by too many leaves and is more conducive to the rubber plant sprouting new buds. Pruning and topping of the rubber plant is a continuous task. If you want to achieve a satisfactory shape and good growth condition, you should prune and top the plant regularly, whenever the branches have grown long.
The above is the specific content on how to prune a rubber plant that is too tall and the pruning method illustration. If it can be of help to you, remember to visit the Green Plant Enthusiast website often!