How to prune Four Seasons Begonia
As a representative of perennial ornamental plants, Begonia is favored by horticulture enthusiasts for its continuous flowering characteristics. However, in order to maintain its beautiful plant type and vigorous flowering period, scientific pruning techniques and precise time control are indispensable. This article will systematically analyze the complete knowledge system of Begonia pruning from the practical level. Full strategy for pruning four-season crabapple seedlings shaping pruning method The golden rule for retaining 3-5 main stems at the beginning of colonization: Select strong upright branches as the main frame, and remove crossing branches and inward branches. Special attention should be paid to retaining branches with uniform base buds, pruning them at a 45° angle with gardening scissors, and applying plant ash to the incisions to prevent infection. Growth cycle maintenance and pruning identify four types of must-pruned strips: yellowed branches (leaf chlorosis area>50%), diseased branches (mildew spots or worm-eaten), thin and weak branches (diameter <2mm), and dead branches. When pruning, follow the principle of "inside-out, top-down" and use alcohol-disinfected pruning shears to avoid the spread of bacteria. Post-flowering rejuvenation and pruning techniques Clean up residual flowers within 72 hours after the end of flowering period, retaining 1-2 bud points at the base of the flower stem. The "three-three pruning method" will be implemented simultaneously: 30% of excessively dense branches will be thinned, 30% of long branches will be shortened, and 30% of new branches will be retained. Pay special attention to retaining outer branches with good phototropism. Spring pruning (March-April) during the prime period of four-season crabapple pruning is mainly based on shaping, and is coordinated with pot change for root pruning. Autumn pruning (September to October) focuses on promoting flowering and retaining the semi-lignified branches of the year. Under special circumstances, light shearing can be carried out in summer, but it is necessary to avoid the high temperature period at noon and pruning is strictly prohibited in winter.
Master the "three-look" pruning principle: look at the plant type to determine the pruning extent, look at the growth rate to determine the pruning intensity, and look at the season to choose the pruning method. Regular pruning can not only maintain the ideal height of 15-35cm, but also increase the number of flowering by more than 30%. It is recommended to cooperate with top-dressing phosphorus and potassium fertilizer after pruning and use 800-fold diluted carbendazim solution for disinfection of the whole plant.