How to Prune a Maple Bonsai
Do you know these? Here is an introduction to the pruning methods for a maple bonsai, and the editor will introduce it to everyone next.
How to Prune a Maple Bonsai
During the growth of a maple bonsai, you can剪 off the apical dominance on the main branches, and also剪 off the surrounding lateral buds, to promote branching growth. In the growing season, promptly thin dense branches, crossed branches, and upright branches, etc., to enhance the ornamental value. In winter, growth is slow, and light pruning should be the main focus,剪 off weak branches, diseased branches, withered branches, unnecessary branches, and unattractive branches.
Best Time for Pruning Maple Bonsai
It is generally better to prune maple bonsai in the spring, specifically in March or April each year, before the buds grow. This reduces damage to the plant and allows it to recover quickly.
Pruning Maple Bonsai Leaves
1. Pinching off the top
Maple grows vigorously, and during home cultivation, you can pinch off the top during the growing season to effectively control the plant's height. This is mainly done in the summer. After剪 off the apical dominance and the surrounding lateral buds, multiple pinching should be done according to the growth to promote branching.
2. Thinning out
Maple has a strong ability to sprout, and during the growing season, attention should be paid to shaping pruning. At this time, you can promptly thin dense branches, crossed branches, and upright branches, and also剪 off the weak branches growing from the main stem. Even some thick branches should be剪 off to make the plant look more attractive.
3. Shaping pruning
Shaping pruning is an important aspect of pruning maple. During the growing season, observe the overall balance of the tree shape. If there are excessive branches,剪 off the outer branches and the messy, unattractive dense branches, mainly starting from the base. Also,剪 off a part of the upper part of the main stem to maintain the height of the tree shape.
4. Winter pruning
In winter, maple enters a dormant period with slow growth, so light pruning should be the main focus. Do not make the pruning too extensive, as it may affect plant growth.剪 off weak branches, diseased branches, withered branches, unnecessary branches, and some branches that affect the appearance to enhance the ornamental value of the plant.
Propagation by Cutting Maple Branches
First, we need to choose a tree with lush foliage as the main branch for propagation to create an ornamental maple bonsai. Select a finger-thick maple branch, use pruning shears to剪 it off the tree.
Make a circular incision in the middle of the branch, remove the surface bark and a layer of epidermis underneath. This circular incision should be about 5 centimeters long. Then apply a rooting hormone to the incision, wrap it with plastic film, and tie both ends tightly. Bury it in the soil.
About a month later, you can see that roots have grown around the incision. At this time, prepare a pot with some soil at the bottom, plant the branch with roots in the pot, stabilize it with sticks on both sides, and keep the soil moist by watering regularly. That's it.
The above is a comprehensive introduction to how to prune a maple bonsai, hoping to bring some knowledge about green plants to green plant enthusiasts.