The Chinese flowering crabapple is a common plant in traditional Chinese gardens, widely loved for its magnificent flowers and beautiful form. However, to maintain a healthy growth state and beautiful appearance, proper pruning and trimming are necessary. Next, we will introduce the techniques and skills of crabapple pruning.
I. The Best Time for Pruning Crabapples
The best time to prune crabapples is in spring and autumn, as these are the optimal seasons for growth and sprouting new branches. In spring, pruning should be done after the flowering period; in autumn, it should be completed before the temperature drops.
II. Pruning Tools to Note
When pruning crabapples, you need to prepare some tools, such as scissors, saws, and pruners. These tools should be kept dry, sharp, and regularly cleaned and disinfected to avoid spreading diseases.
III. The Purpose of Pruning
The main purpose of pruning crabapples is to control the tree shape, promote the growth of lateral branches, and adjust the length and form of the branches to make them more aesthetically pleasing. At the same time, it can also remove diseased or pest-infested branches to improve the plant's disease resistance and immunity.
IV. Things to Note When Trimming
When trimming crabapples, pay attention to mastering the correct pruning techniques and methods. First, determine the location of the branches to be cut, place the tool in the desired position, and cut gently. During the process, avoid pulling, breaking, or cutting young buds and tender leaves.
V. Cutting Away Messy Branches and Leaves
When crabapples are growing vigorously, they will produce many messy branches and leaves, affecting the ornamental effect. When pruning in spring and autumn, selectively cut the branches and leaves that need to be removed to keep the plant tidy and beautiful.
VI. Proper Thinning
To make the trunk and lateral branches of the crabapple stronger and more robust, you can appropriately thin out some overly dense branches. This can increase air and light penetration, allowing the interior of the plant to have better ventilation and light exposure.
VII. Removing Dead Branches
During the growth process, crabapples will produce some aged and dead branches and leaves. These parts are prone to bacteria and pests, affecting the plant's health. When pruning, promptly identify and remove these dead branches to maintain healthy growth.
VIII. Pay Attention to the Direction of Pruning
When pruning, pay attention to the direction. Align the blade of the tool with the part to be cut and cut slowly along the direction of the branch. If the tool cuts something it shouldn't, it can easily cause injury and trauma to the plant.
IX. Be Mindful of the Pruning Force
When pruning and trimming crabapples, master the appropriate force and angle. Too much or too little force can harm the plant, leading to poor growth or death. Pay attention to the urgency of the situation during pruning; do not be impatient or too greedy.
X. Make Good Use of Pruning Waste
When pruning and trimming crabapples, some waste and wood chips will be produced. This leftover material can be disposed of through methods like composting or burning to achieve environmental protection and resource utilization.
XI. Timely Removal of Waste Branches and Leaves
When trimming and pruning crabapples, some waste branches, leaves, and dead branches will be produced. If not cleaned up for a long time, it can easily breed bacteria and pests. When pruning, promptly remove these wastes and dispose of them properly.
XII. Regular Weeding and Fertilizing
The growth of crabapples requires suitable nutrients and water. Therefore, pay attention to regular weeding, fertilizing, and watering to maintain the plant's healthy growth.
XIII. Skillful Use of Fertilizer
When applying fertilizer to crabapples, you can choose the appropriate type and amount of fertilizer based on the plant's nutritional needs and growth characteristics. Crabapples at different stages require different fertilizer ratios to achieve better growth results.
XIV. Maintain Balanced Moisture
Crabapples need sufficient water during their growth process, but too much or too little can harm the plant. When watering crabapples, master the appropriate amount and time to maintain a balanced and stable moisture level.
XV.
The Chinese flowering crabapple is a beautiful plant, but to make it grow healthier and more beautiful, pruning and trimming are necessary. When pruning, pay attention to the correct pruning time, tool selection, pruning techniques, and pruning force to achieve the best results. At the same time, also pay attention to the maintenance and management of the plant, maintaining suitable moisture, fertilizer, and environmental conditions to improve the plant's growth quality and ornamental effect.