How to Prune Epiphyllum to Encourage Blooming
An explanation about pruning epiphyllum to promote blooming and an illustration of pruning methods for green plants and flowers, as follows:
Epiphyllum is a plant of the cactaceae family, and it is very beautiful after flowering, also known as the beauty under the moon. Many hobbyists grow epiphyllum in pots, and they have encountered many problems related to blooming, with some plants not flowering for several years and others flowering very little. To make epiphyllum bloom more, it is important to not only take good care of it but also to prune properly. Let's talk about the knowledge of pruning epiphyllum.
I. Pruning Methods for Epiphyllum
1. Top Removal
Top removal, also known as pinching the top. During the growth of epiphyllum, its height needs to be controlled, generally below two meters is acceptable. If the height exceeds two meters, the pot plant is difficult to move, and it can be quite麻烦 during winter.
After pinching the top, the plant loses its apical dominance, which saves a lot of nutrients for the plant. These nutrients will supply the growth of the stems, making them stronger and also promoting the growth of many lateral buds.
2. Inducing Buds
Inducing buds is for shaping. By injuring some growth points in suitable places, buds can be induced. Leaves growing in suitable places make the epiphyllum plant look more attractive.
3. Pruning Branches
Pruning branches can also help shape the plant and improve flowering. By pruning some branches affected by diseases and pests, weak branches, overlapping branches, and dense branches, the plant can save some nutrients. Unreasonable stems and leaves, as well as withered and dead leaves, should also be cut off to allow more nutrients for flowering and prevent the root system from becoming too large.
4. Height Control
When growing epiphyllum, generally, each pot should retain five to six branches. The height of the plant should be maintained between 1 to 2 meters for a fuller appearance. If the plant grows too tall, it will need to be supported with a stake.
II. Precautions
1. Light Pruning
Epiphyllum has its own characteristics; it flowers on old branches. Because of this characteristic, it is not suitable for heavy pruning; light pruning is more appropriate. Excessive pruning can affect normal flowering.
2. Pruning in Order
Pruning epiphyllum should also follow an order, starting by removing withered and dead leaves. Some branches that grow weakly should also be pruned first.
In addition, overly dense branches should also be pruned. Some branches that grow too vigorously should also be pruned appropriately.
3. Moderate Pruning
Epiphyllum pruning can only be described as moderate pruning. If pruning is too heavy and old branches are pruned off, the plant will not be able to bloom.
The above introduction about how to prune epiphyllum to encourage blooming and the illustration of pruning methods, hoping to bring some floral knowledge to green plant enthusiasts.