When is the Best Time to Prune Epiphyllum Oxypetalum
Today's focus is to introduce the best time to prune Epiphyllum Oxypetalum and the related knowledge of pruning methods with illustrations, followed by detailed content sharing.
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum belongs to the cactus family and is very beautiful after flowering, also known as the beauty under the moon. Many enthusiasts grow Epiphyllum Oxypetalum in pots and have encountered many problems related to flowering, such as some plants not flowering for several years and others flowering very few times. To make Epiphyllum Oxypetalum flower more, it is important to do a good job of pruning in addition to regular maintenance. Let's talk about the knowledge of pruning Epiphyllum Oxypetalum.
I. Pruning Methods for Epiphyllum Oxypetalum
1. Pinching the Top
Pinching the top is also known as topping. It is necessary to control the height of Epiphyllum Oxypetalum during its growth, generally keeping it below two meters. If the height exceeds two meters, the potted plant is difficult to move and can be troublesome during the winter.
After topping, the plant loses its apical dominance, which saves a lot of nutrients for the plant. These nutrients are supplied to the stem growth, making the stems stronger and producing many lateral buds.
2. Inducing Buds
Inducing buds is for shaping. By injuring some growing points in suitable places, buds can be induced. Leaves growing in suitable places make the plant look more attractive.
3. Pruning Branches
Pruning branches can also play a role in shaping and can improve flowering. By pruning some branches affected by diseases and pests, weak branches, overlapping branches, and dense branches appropriately, the plant can save some nutrients. Unreasonable stems and leaves, as well as withered branches, should also be cut off to provide more nutrients for flowering and prevent the root system from becoming too large.
4. Controlling Height
When growing Epiphyllum Oxypetalum, generally, keeping five to six branches per pot is sufficient. The height of the plant is usually maintained between 1 meter and 2 meters, making the plant look fuller. If the plant grows too tall, a support structure is needed.
II. Precautions
1. Light Pruning
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum has its own characteristics and flowers on old branches. Due to this characteristic, it is not suitable for heavy pruning, and light pruning is more appropriate. Excessive pruning can affect normal flowering.
2. Pruning in Order
Pruning Epiphyllum Oxypetalum should also follow a sequence, first removing withered and diseased leaves. Some branches with weak growth should also be pruned first.
In addition, overly dense branches should be pruned. Some branches that grow too vigorously should also be pruned appropriately.
3. Moderate Pruning
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum pruning can only be described as moderate. If the pruning is too heavy and the old branches are pruned, it will not be able to flower.
The detailed explanation of the best time to prune Epiphyllum Oxypetalum and the pruning methods with illustrations introduced above are for reference and suggestion only!