Jade Tree Pruning
As an evergreen in the succulent world, the Jade Tree is deeply favored by gardening enthusiasts for its jade-like leaves and unique shape. However, many encounter issues with leggy growth and disheveled plant forms during care. Mastering scientific pruning techniques not only enhances the ornamental value of the Jade Tree but also promotes healthy growth of the plant.
Four Core Steps of Jade Tree Pruning
Choosing the Best Pruning Time
Spring and autumn are the golden seasons for pruning the Jade Tree, as the plant is in a semi-dormant state and recovers quickly after pruning. In winter, pruning should be maintained in a room temperature above 15°C, and heavy pruning should be avoided during the high summer temperatures.
Essentials of Shaping Pruning Techniques
1. Shortening for shaping: For branches over 25cm, keep 10-15cm and make a flat cut 0.5cm from the leaf node to stimulate the growth of lateral buds using the principle of apical dominance. 2. Eliminate diseased branches: Immediately cut off black rot or powdery mildew branches at the root, disinfect tools with 75% alcohol, and apply carbendazim powder to the cut. 3. Thinning for light: Retain 3-5 primary branches on the main stem, with each branch having 2-3 secondary branches to ensure every leaf gets ample light. 4. Tidying up messy branches: Use a 45° oblique cut method to handle crossed branches and inner branches, prioritizing the retention of robust outward-growing branches.
Advanced Jade Tree Shaping Techniques
Creating a Bonsai Style Shape
Guide the growth of branches with metal wire and combine pinching to promote branching to create bonsai styles like cliff and waterside. When the main trunk diameter exceeds 2cm, peeling and carving can be done to enhance the robust appearance.
Maintenance of Creative Shapes
For a spherical shape, prune new top buds every quarter, and for a pagoda shape, keep the lower branches 20% longer than the upper ones. Regularly rotate the pot to ensure even light exposure and prevent biased growth.
Scientific Care After Pruning
After pruning, place the plant in a well-ventilated and diffused light area for 7-10 days until the cuts are fully healed before watering normally. Strong branches cut off can be dried for 2 days before being propagated, with a suggested substrate ratio of perlite to peat soil as 1:1, maintaining humidity at 60% for about 20 days until roots form.
Through systematic pruning management, the Jade Tree can maintain a compact shape and stimulate its growth potential. Regularly observing the plant's condition and adjusting pruning strategies according to seasonal changes can help you cultivate Jade Tree masterpieces with artistic value.