What is the best time to dig wild stocks of Sageretia theezans?

When to Dig Wild Trunks of Sageretia

This article focuses on when to dig wild trunks of Sageretia and some tips for green plant maintenance regarding the best time to do so. Let's explore this together with the editor!

Sageretia, also known as Sageretia theezans in Chinese, has a long history of being used to create盆景 (miniature landscapes) in the Lingnan region of China. Sageretia is a shrub of the Rhamnaceae family, with small light yellow flowers similar to plum blossoms. Its branches are either upright or vine-like, making it a highly popular and valuable盆景 for观赏. Below, we introduce the best time to dig Sageretia trunks and the reasons for it.

I. Winter

Digging wild trunks in winter for planting has a higher chance of survival, and it is recommended to do so in January.

At this time, Sageretia is in its dormant period, and the damage caused by pruning the roots and branches is minimal. Usually, after the coldest period, the temperature gradually rises, and the plant resumes growth. Having gone through winter dormancy, the plant accumulates nutrients, and the wounds from pruning heal, making the wild trunks dug in winter more likely to sprout and take root, thus having the highest survival rate.

II. Spring

Spring is also a suitable time for digging trunks, but it should not be done after the plant has started to sprout. It is best to dig wild trunks in February, and by March, they can sprout and take root simultaneously.

The reason is that Sageretia prefers a warm and humid environment, and spring is the growing season for the plant. For example, trunks planted at the end of spring can grow roots within 30 to 40 days after planting.

III. Differences Between North and South

1. South

In southern regions, it is recommended to dig trunks between January 5th or 7th (Minor Cold) and January 20th or 21st (Major Cold). This is because the climate in the south is warmer than in the north, and Sageretia has a shorter dormant period, sprouting earlier. Moreover, this period is the coldest time of the year, and digging trunks during the coldest period is less likely to result in pest and disease infections.

2. North

In northern regions, especially in North China and Northeast China, where winter is frozen and snowy until May, it is recommended to dig trunks around the Spring Equinox, which is in March.

IV. Not Suitable to Dig Trunks in Summer

In July and August, the temperature is too high. If trunks are dug at this time, the strong transpiration of the plant can cause a significant loss of water, and if the roots are not developed, it can lead to the plant's death.

V. Precautions When Digging Trunks

When digging trunks, it is important to avoid damaging the roots and to cut some branches short. The wounds after pruning should be treated with a healing agent. Freshly dug wild trunks should be wrapped in a damp cloth and placed in a shady and well-ventilated area. It is best to plant them as soon as possible to avoid the plant losing nutrients and moisture.

The soil for planting wild trunks should be loose, breathable, and fertile, preferably mixed with river sand. Before planting, soak the roots in a rooting hormone solution to promote root growth. After planting, cover the soil surface with a layer of plastic film to keep the temperature and humidity.

The above information provides a detailed introduction to when to dig wild trunks of Sageretia and the best time to do so. Have you understood it?