How to Prune Honeysuckle Bonsai
An introduction to pruning techniques for honeysuckle bonsai and green plant flowers, the specific contents are as follows:
Honeysuckle is both a flower and a medicine. When cultivating honeysuckle indoors, it is essential to master the correct pruning method to ensure better growth. Proper pruning can increase the number of honeysuckle buds and also make the shape more attractive. Pruning honeysuckle requires attention from multiple aspects, and here is an introduction on how to prune potted honeysuckle.
One, Pruning Time and Method
1. Pruning Method
Honeysuckle is a vine-like shrub. To shape the plant into a tree form, the simplest method is to cut off the new buds on the main stem, roots, and sick or weak branches. To maintain the shape, topping and pinching are also necessary, so that the honeysuckle roots can gradually become stronger. In particular, to ensure the plant's long-term survival, it is best not to prune the roots, especially as damaged main roots are detrimental to the plant's nutrient absorption, easily uprooted by wind.
It is important to master the degree of pruning, pruning strong branches more heavily and weak plants lightly, to maintain a balanced state between the main stem and branches. Additionally, after the tree shape is formed, regular shaping of the honeysuckle bonsai is needed, which can be achieved through winter pruning, summer pruning, withering branch pruning, flat-top pruning, and breaking off branches.
2. Pruning Timing
The first pruning should be done when the honeysuckle reaches 35-50 centimeters, which is beneficial for the growth of lateral branches.
Pruning can be done in every season, with minor adjustments during regular maintenance. After the flowering period, a full pruning is required. In spring, focus on topping the main stem, in summer, light pruning of lateral branches, in autumn, cut the autumn shoots, and from December to February of the following year, winter pruning can be done.
3. Pruning Locations
When pruning, be careful to handle the top leaves and cut away any growth that is not good. For example, areas with dried and elongated leaves, as well as the remnants of flowers after flowering, should be pruned to prevent nutrient loss in honeysuckle.
If any part of the honeysuckle is attacked by pests or diseases, it should be cut off promptly to prevent damage to other parts.
Two, How to Choose Pruning Methods
1. Based on Variety
There are two varieties of artificially cultivated honeysuckle: large flowered honeysuckle and chicken claw honeysuckle. The large flowered variety requires heavy pruning of overly long and dense branches, while chicken claw honeysuckle should be pruned into an umbrella shape, cutting back long and sickly branches.
2. Based on Flower Age
Plants in the fourth year are considered young and can be pruned heavily to shape. Plants in the flowering stage from 4 to 20 years old should have weak and dense branches pruned. Aged honeysuckle requires cutting of withered, diseased, and weak branches.
3. Others
When pruning a bonsai, the general rule is to shape it into a tree with only one main stem. However, if there are new shoots at the base of the main stem, they can be retained for future use. For example, these branches can be used for propagation through layering when they grow larger.
Three, Precautions for Pruning Honeysuckle
1. Before Pruning
Disinfection must be done well before pruning. The pruning tools should be disinfected, and the honeysuckle wounds should also be disinfected after pruning to prevent the spread of diseases. Do not let the honeysuckle wounds come into contact with water after pruning, as they may rot.
2. Post-Pruning Care
After pruning, pay attention to the duration of sunlight and control the amount of water. It is best to place the plant in a semi-shaded and well-ventilated area for care, and it can recover within a week. During this period, do not fertilize the honeysuckle, and after a month, you can start fertilizing appropriately.
The above is the information on how to prune honeysuckle bonsai and related pruning techniques, hoping it is helpful to you!