How to prune plum blossoms to make them look good

When is the best time to prune plum blossoms?

Usually the time for spring pruning of plum blossoms is around March to May. Because the plant blooms before growing leaves, this period is the time when leaves grow. Proper pruning can control the shape of the plant, promote branch growth, reduce nutrient consumption, and also help flowering in the second year.

Plum Blossom Pruning Tips

Topping: When the new branches grow to about 20cm, proper topping is required. Generally, 3-5 branches should be retained as main branches. When the new branches grow to about 15cm, they can be heart-shaped, which can make their branches grow stronger.

Pruning: When the main branches grow fast, flower buds are not easy to form, so the main branches need to be pruned. The branches grow very fast. After the flower buds are formed, some branches that are too long, weak, or diseased need to be cut off.

Pruning after flowering: Pruning is also necessary after flowering. Flowers bloom before leaves grow, so the withered flowers and some branches with poor growth should be cut off, which can promote the sprouting of new leaves.

Plum blossom pruning precautions

The scissors used for pruning should be sharp, and try to use a new utility knife, so that the flower branches can be cut very quickly without excessive wear and tear of the branches. Do not spray water after pruning to prevent the cuts on the branches from rotting.