Does autumn pruning of begonia affect its growth? How to grasp the best timing for transplantation?

Can crabapple flowers be pruned in autumn?The autumnal mood is getting stronger, and the maintenance of crabapple flowers has become the focus of gardening enthusiasts. As one of China's traditional famous flowers, the autumn management of crabapple directly affects the quality of flowering and plant health the following year. For the two core issues of pruning and transplanting, scientific measures need to be taken based on the plant's growth characteristics.Key points for autumn pruning and maintenanceBest pruning timePruning is most suitable after the plant has completely shed its leaves (around mid-October to mid-November). At this time, the flow of sap slows down, and the healing speed of wounds accelerates, effectively avoiding bacterial infections. It is recommended to implement pruning around the time of the frost season in the North China region, and in the Jiangnan region, it can be postponed until before the start of winter.Specific pruning operation specificationsAdopt a three-level pruning method: first, cut off damaged branches such as diseased and dead branches; second, deal with branches that affect ventilation, such as intersecting and overlapping branches; finally, moderately shorten the branches that grow excessively according to shaping needs. Retain 3-5 healthy main branches, with 2-3 lateral buds on each main branch, keeping the tree canopy light transmission rate at around 40%.Tool disinfection and postoperative careDisinfect pruning shears with 75% alcohol, and keep the cut at a 45-degree angle. After pruning, apply healing ointment or plant ash, and avoid getting wet within 72 hours. Special note: For tree varieties such as West Fu crabapple, the pruning volume should be controlled within 30% of the total branches, while for shrub varieties such as close-budded crabapple, it can be appropriately increased to 40%.Key techniques for transplanting during dormancyPrinciples for choosing transplanting timeIn the northern region, it is suitable to transplant when 70% of the leaves have fallen (mid-to-late October), while in the southern region, it can be postponed until late November. Choose a cloudy day with stable daytime temperatures of 10-15°C for three consecutive days, avoiding cold wave warning periods. Stop watering 5 days before transplanting to keep the soil in a semi-dry state.Root protection operation pointsThe diameter of the soil ball should be 6-8 times the diameter of the trunk, and it should be tied with straw rope to keep it intact. Apply rooting powder to the cut end of the main root, and the retention rate of fine roots should reach 60% or more. The depth of the planting hole should be 20cm deeper than the soil ball, with a 10cm layer of gravel at the bottom to enhance drainage.Key points for maintenance after transplantingAfter planting, water thoroughly and set up a 50% shade net for 2 weeks. Apply mature soybean cake fertilizer before the spring sprouting and combine with seaweed extract solution to promote the development of new roots. Special attention: For plants older than three years, 50% of the flower buds should be thinned after transplanting to accumulate nutrients.Mastering the golden period for autumn pruning and transplanting not only ensures that crabapple can safely survive the winter but also promotes flower bud differentiation. In practice, it is necessary to adjust flexibly according to the plant's age and variety characteristics, combined with regular observations to adjust the maintenance plan in a timely manner, to ensure that crabapple flowers beautifully every year.