How to Prune Cereus Flowers
Cereus flowers, as epiphytic plants of the cactus family, are loved by horticulture enthusiasts for their unique flat stems and leaves and beautiful flowers. Scientific pruning not only shapes an elegant plant form but also promotes bud differentiation to increase the number of flowers. This article will systematically explain the core techniques and matching maintenance plan for pruning cereus flowers, allowing your plants to display the best ornamental state.
1. The Four Key Steps of Pruning Cereus Flowers
1. Precise Bud Removal in the Germination Stage
In the spring, when new buds sprout, promptly remove the side buds from the lower 2/3 of the main stem, retaining the top growing dominant buds. This operation can concentrate nutrients (G-Y), prevent the formation of too many thin and weak branches, and lay the foundation for subsequent bud formation.
2. Scientific Regulation of Growth Points
When the stem extends to about 35cm, trim the top growth point with a sterilized scissor. This operation can stimulate the stem to thicken and widen, and it is recommended to retain 3-4 main stems to form a structural framework, ensuring good ventilation and light for the plant.
3. Structural Thinning Principle
After the flowering period each year, cut off dense, intersecting branches, inner branches, and diseased branches. Special attention should be paid to retaining the green and healthy stems from the previous year, as these branches will bear more than 80% of the flowering tasks in the following year.
4. Strategy for Renewing Old Branches
For the gray-brown old branches that have bloomed 2-3 times, a 1cm stub should be left at the base for a reduction pruning. Combined with the application of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers after pruning, it can stimulate the growth of new stems to form replacement branches.
II. Key Points of Matching Maintenance for Pruning Cereus Flowers
After pruning, apply wood ash to the wounds to prevent infection and pause watering for 3 days until the cut heals. Tools are recommended to be sterilized with medical alcohol or flame burning, especially during the rainy season, when it is necessary to enhance environmental ventilation to prevent fungal growth.
Scientific pruning management combined with appropriate water control (keeping the soil slightly moist during the growing period), sufficient scattered light (4-6 hours daily), and frequent thin applications of balanced nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers (once a month) can make cereus flowers bloom continuously 2-3 times a year, with each flower lasting 5-7 days.