How to prune Chaenomeles japonica? Master the correct pruning method

Chaenomeles japonica is a relatively well-known bonsai plant belonging to the genus Chaenomeles in the rose family, so what is the pruning method for Chaenomeles japonica?

1. Growth habits of Chaenomeles japonica

The Chinese scientific name of Chaenomeles japonica is Japanese quince, native to Japan. In China it is commonly cultivated in gardens in Shaanxi, Jiangsu and Zhejiang.

Chaenomeles japonica likes ample sunlight, also tolerates partial shade, and is slightly cold-tolerant. It grows poorly in saline-alkali soil and clay soil. It likes moisture, but is afraid of waterlogging that rots the roots. [4] It has strong adaptability and can withstand low temperatures of -32°C and high temperatures of 42°C.

There are not many cultivation methods for Chaenomeles japonica; generally seed propagation and cutting propagation are used. For cutting propagation, the cuttings are usually potted when the new roots are about 2-3 cm long, generally first planted in small pots, and after the seedlings branch they are planted out in pots with a diameter of 18-20 cm.

2. Pruning method for Chaenomeles japonica

Cut off the branches at the top that have grown too tall, so that the bottom can grow more vigorously. Normally you can also prune it according to the shape of the Chaenomeles japonica to keep it in its original form. Do not prune Chaenomeles japonica excessively in winter; just cut off dead leaves and dead branches and keep it indoors for natural growing.

3. Pest and disease control for Chaenomeles japonica

The common disease is stem rot, which is mainly caused by overly wet potting soil. When it occurs, promptly remove diseased leaves and old leaves, control watering, and ensure the potting soil is not too wet to prevent and control it.

Common pests include aphids, red spider mites and leaf roller moths, among which:

Aphids can be controlled by spraying a 1500-fold dilution of 50% menazon emulsifiable concentrate, a 2000-fold dilution of 50% phoxim emulsifiable concentrate, or a 1500-fold dilution of 20% methomyl emulsifiable concentrate;

Red spider mites can be controlled by spraying a 1000-5000-fold dilution of 40% dimethoate emulsifiable concentrate, a 1500-fold dilution of 50% monocrotophos emulsifiable concentrate, or a 1500-fold dilution of 40% isocarbophos emulsifiable concentrate;

Leaf roller moths can be controlled by spraying a 1000-fold dilution of 40% omethoate.