Succulents are loved by many gardening enthusiasts for their unique shapes and easy-to-care-for nature. Many beginners encounter a question during the maintenance process: Should we cut the head of succulents when they grow up? Why is that? Let's uncover this mystery and share practical tips for caring for succulents.
Why do succulents need "head cutting"?1. Promoting succulent growth
During the growth process of succulents, they gradually accumulate nutrients, forming a relatively thick main stem. If not cut in time, the growth rate of succulents will slow down, and even stop growing. By cutting the head, it can stimulate the succulents to sprout again and promote their growth.
2. Maintaining the beauty of succulents
During the growth of succulents, the top will gradually form dense leaves, affecting the overall appearance. By cutting the head, the excess growth points can be removed, making the succulents maintain a neat shape.
3. Preventing diseases and pests
Succulents that have not been pruned for a long time can easily accumulate dust and impurities between the leaves, leading to the occurrence of diseases and pests. Cutting the head can eliminate these隐患 and reduce the risk of diseases and pests.
The correct method for cutting the head of succulents1. Choosing the right time
Spring is a good time to cut the head of succulents, with suitable temperatures and vigorous growth of succulents, which is conducive to recovery.
2. Preparing tools
Before cutting the head, prepare sharp scissors or gardening shears for operation.
3. Cutting operation
Tilt the scissors or gardening shears at a 45-degree angle and cut along the main stem of the succulent, taking care not to damage too many leaves to avoid affecting the recovery of the succulent.
4. Treating the wound
After cutting the head, the succulent will have a wound. You can use horticultural tape or a special medicine to seal the wound to prevent moisture evaporation and bacterial infection.
Care for succulents after cutting the head1. Maintaining ventilation
Succulents that have been cut need to maintain a good ventilation environment, which is conducive to wound healing.
2. Controlling watering
Succulents that have been cut grow quickly and need to increase watering frequency appropriately, but be careful to control the amount of water to avoid excessive moisture causing root rot.
3. Fertilizing
During the recovery period of succulents, a small amount of nitrogen fertilizer can be applied to promote leaf growth.
Cutting the head of a succulent that has grown up is a common maintenance method that can promote growth and maintain beauty. Mastering the correct method of cutting the head and properly caring for the succulent plant will make your succulents grow stronger. In this process, succulent enthusiasts can fully enjoy the fun of gardening.