How to prune a large happiness tree
A comprehensive explanation of how to prune a large happiness tree and some small experiences in plant cultivation related to the pruning steps of the happiness tree, next [] the editor will introduce.
The happiness tree is also known as the kidney bean tree, pepper tree, or mountain kidney bean tree, mainly produced in the southern tropical regions of China. It is a plant with high ornamental value and is often seen in many homes and office environments. However, many people don't know how to prune a happiness tree. Let's take a look at the pruning methods of the happiness tree!
Methods for pruning a happiness tree
1. Pinching the top: Also known as topping, it involves pinching off or cutting the top of the main stem or lateral branches of the plant, breaking the apical dominance, promoting the germination of axillary buds below, inhibiting the elongation of branches, promoting branching, and forming multiple flower heads and an elegant plant shape.
2. Cutting the top: For large plants such as rubber trees, thousand-year trees, schefflera, and king glory plants, which are too tall and difficult to cultivate indoors, pruning or cutting the top is necessary. Generally, before the new branches sprout in spring, the top part of the plant is cut off, which is called cutting the top. The height of the main stem to be left depends on the type of plant.
3. Thinning: This includes thinning branches, leaves, buds, flowers, and adventitious buds. When the plant grows too vigorously and the branches and leaves are too dense, it is necessary to thin some branches or remove dense leaves in time to improve ventilation and lighting conditions, making the plant more robust and the flowers and fruits more colorful.
Growth conditions for happiness trees
1. Temperature: Happiness trees thrive in warm environments with a growth temperature of about 20°C. When the temperature is very high (above 28°C), it is necessary to shade the plants properly, and the minimum temperature should not be below 5°C to avoid frostbite.
2. Light: Generally, happiness trees can be cultivated in full sunlight or semi-shade. However, for indoor potted plants, it is best to place them near a window or on a balcony with ample light, as prolonged dim conditions can cause leaf drop.
3. Humidity: Happiness trees prefer a moist soil and air environment. When displaying happiness trees indoors, in addition to keeping the potting soil moist, it is also necessary to spray water on the leaves frequently, or spray the plants with slightly warm water to maintain their lush appearance.
4. Substrate: When cultivating happiness trees, it is important to choose a loose, breathable, and well-draining substrate. The soil should be sandy loam, and the size of the pot can be determined based on the size of the final cultivated plant. The current popular cultivation method is to plant 1 to 2 plants per pot, with a plant height of over 70 centimeters.
Precautions for cultivating happiness trees
1. Happiness trees can tolerate shade and can be cultivated in full sun or semi-shade environments. In spring, when new growth appears, it is advisable to control watering to prevent the trees from growing too tall. Additionally, in indoor displays, it is important to keep the potting soil moist and to spray the plants with water 2 to 3 times a day during hot seasons. In summer and autumn, the plants should be sprayed more frequently to create a cool and moist environment.
2. In terms of soil, a loose, fertile, well-draining, and organically rich growing soil should be selected. The soil is usually mixed with 5 parts garden soil, 3 parts decomposed leaf mold, 1 part decomposed organic fertilizer, and 1 part river sand. Loosening the soil once a month during the growing season ensures that the roots are always in a well-ventilated state. If water accumulates in the pot, it should be drained as soon as possible, and the potting soil should be changed after it dries. Since happiness trees grow rapidly, they require ample nutrients to ensure vigorous growth, so it is necessary to fertilize frequently during the growing season. A mixed fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in a ratio of 20-10-10 or 15-15-15 can be used. Diluted thin fertilizer water can also be used to water the potting soil.
3. Happiness trees prefer warm environments. The optimal growth temperature during the day is 20°C-21°C, and at night is 18°C-19°C. During the hot summer, the temperature should be kept below 27°C as much as possible. When the ambient temperature is very high, it is necessary to shade the plants properly to increase humidity and thus increase the humidity on the leaf surface. During the winter period, the temperature should be maintained above 8°C, and the minimum temperature should not be below 5°C. If it drops below 5°C
The above is a detailed explanation of how to prune a large happiness tree and the pruning steps related to the happiness tree. I hope this article can provide you with some help in green plant management!