How to pinch the top of旱金莲 (Tropaeolum majus)
The editor explains how to pinch the top of旱金莲 and provides detailed information on the timing and methods for pruning this green plant, as follows:
旱金莲, also known as旱荷 or golden lilies, comes in many varieties. It is a vine plant native to South America, with tendrils that can climb and wrap around to grow upwards. Pinching, also known as topping, is generally done during the seedling stage of旱金莲 to promote branching and control plant height. Timing, method, and care should be considered when pinching. Let's talk about how to pinch旱金莲.
1. Pinching Time
Pinching can be done when the seedlings have 2 to 3 true leaves, but it should not be too early. The timing should depend on the growth of the seedlings. If the seedlings are too small, pinching will slow down their growth. It is most suitable to pinch when the branches are 10 centimeters long and have 7 or 8 leaves.
2. Pinching Method
Simply remove the top bud of the seedling, which is the smallest 1 or 2 leaves at the center of the plant. Pinching can be repeated 2 or 3 times, from planting to about a month before flowering.
3. Care After Pinching
After pinching, fertilize moderately and water sufficiently. Water should be poured slowly around the edge of the pot. New branches should appear within about 10 days.
4. Shaping After Pinching
When the seedling plant is 15 to 20 centimeters taller than the pot surface, a trellis must be set up, and the vines should be evenly tied to the trellis. When setting up the trellis, unnecessary side branches can be pruned, leaving the main branches and sturdy vines.
5. Precautions for Pinching
Pinching is not necessary, and timing must be considered. Pinching the seedlings can not only inhibit apical dominance, promote branching and more flowering, but it can also delay flowering, making the blooming time roughly the same. Pinching can also dwarf the plant, and combined with pruning in the adult stage, a beautiful plant shape can be cultivated.
6. Pruning Method for旱金莲
Regularly prune yellow leaves, preferably in spring and summer. Pruning should be light in summer and winter, and after flowering, dried and old branches should be cut. Pruning should not be done on rainy days. After pruning, avoid excessive fertilization and watering. Root pruning is usually combined with potting.
旱金莲 is a perennial plant. For varieties with tuberous roots, aging plants can be pruned to promote new growth. When the temperature reaches 10°C, cut the branches above the base and place them in an environment of 6°C for care.
The above is a detailed explanation of how to pinch the top of旱金莲 and the timing and methods for pruning, for your reference and suggestions!