How to prune Serissa japonica? A full analysis of pruning methods
Serissa japonica, also known as "full sky stars" (many-flowered serissa), blooms small white flowers in midsummer, which is why it is named "June snow". Grown as a potted plant, it looks 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 extremely important, 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 cases, 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 lead to the death of the plant.
2. Pruning principles
When pruning Serissa japonica, proceed according to the pruning principles. The pruning principles are: when pruning the main trunk, the stronger the growth of the branch, the lighter the pruning should be; for side branches, vigorously growing branches should be pruned heavily, while weak-growing branches should be pruned lightly. Of course, you can also prune it into curved-trunk, slanting-trunk, cliff-style and other shapes according to your own preference. During pruning, cut off leggy branches, dense branches, pest- and disease-damaged branches, and rotten and messy branches that affect the ornamental value, and also carry out appropriate pinching and bud removal.
3. Pruning methods
The first pruning is carried out from after leaf fall in winter to bud break at Spring Festival. First, select 4-5 branches as the main trunk, and cut off the leggy parts of the main trunk first. If the branches grow too long, the top shoots can also be cut off. Then prune off 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 the photosynthesis of the planting and benefit root growth. After that, cut off the sprouts from the old branches, and do not leave stumps. If any branches suffer from pests or diseases, they 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 and tidy. Before pruning, the tools must be disinfected to avoid infection by pathogens. During pruning, make sure the wounds are smooth, and the wounds should be disinfected to prevent pathogen invasion. After pruning, take careful care and do not let the wounds get wet, otherwise the wounds will rot.
The above is an introduction to how to prune Serissa japonica. I hope it can help you. To learn more related knowledge, please follow us.