How to prune Serissa japonica? A detailed guide to the latest pruning methods
Serissa japonica, also known as baby's breath, blooms small white flowers in midsummer, hence the name June snow. Grown as a potted plant, it is elegant and free-spirited, with varied forms and excellent ornamental value. To help the plant grow better and further improve its ornamental value, proper pruning is crucial, but many people do not know how to prune it. Let's take a look below.
1. Pruning time
When pruning Serissa japonica, we first need to know its pruning time and understand which period is suitable for pruning. Apart from some special circumstances, it generally needs to be pruned 2 times a year, the first time in spring and the second time in autumn, because these two periods are when Serissa japonica grows vigorously, and it can recover as quickly as possible after pruning. If pruned in spring and winter, the plant grows slowly or stops growing, and it is extremely difficult to recover after pruning, which may even lead to the death of the plant.
2. Pruning principles
When pruning Serissa japonica, follow the pruning principles: when pruning the main trunk, the more robust the branch, the lighter the pruning should be; when pruning side branches, vigorous branches should be pruned heavily, while weak branches should be pruned lightly. Of course, you can also prune it into curved-trunk, slanting-trunk, cascade and other styles according to your preference. When pruning, cut off leggy branches, dense branches, pest- and disease-affected branches, and rotten or messy branches that affect the ornamental appearance, and also carry out proper pinching and bud removal.
3. Pruning methods
The first pruning is carried out after leaf fall in winter until bud break at the Spring Festival. First select 4-5 branches as the main trunk, cut off the leggy parts of the main trunk first, and if the branch grows too long, the top shoot can also be cut off. Then prune the protruding parts of the plant's growth, as well as some overly dense branches and leaves, and cut off the old branches at the roots. This can both increase photosynthesis and benefit root growth. After that, cut off the sprouts from the old branches and do not leave stubs. If any branch is affected by pests or diseases, it should also be cut off to prevent the pests and diseases from spreading further and harming the entire plant.
4. Pruning precautions
The tools used for pruning must be clean. Disinfect the tools before pruning to avoid infection by pathogens. When pruning, make sure the wounds are smooth, and disinfect the wounds to prevent pathogens from invading. After pruning, take careful care of the plant and do not let the wounds get wet, otherwise the wounds will rot.
The above is an introduction to how to prune Serissa japonica. We hope it can help you. If you want to learn more related knowledge, please keep following us.