How to prune ball pine

When to prune ball pine

The pruning of ball pine is different in different growth periods. Pruning can be combined with repotting, mainly shortening the thick branches. In the budding period, appropriate pinching and bud removal can be carried out. The axillary buds at the top should be cut off, and the overlapping branches, crossed branches, and parallel branches should all be cut off to reduce the consumption of nutrients.

Tips for pruning ball pine

1. Repotting and pruning

It is best to combine pruning with each repotting of the ball pine, which can increase the survival rate of the root system. It is mainly necessary to shorten the perennial thick branches on the trunk, leaving only about 5 to 8 centimeters. After taking out the roots, cut off the dead and rotten roots on them, soak them in disinfectant and then put them in the pot.

2. Pruning during the budding period

The ball pine has a strong germination ability, grows vigorously in spring, and easily sprouts side branches. During the spring germination period, proper pinching and bud removal should be carried out to control the height of the plant. Mainly cut off the axillary buds at the top of the main branch, which are about 5 cm long. The cut buds can be used for cutting propagation.

3. Pruning during the growing season

The ball pine grows rapidly. During the growing season, the extra dense branches on the plant should be properly thinned out. It is best to ensure that each main branch has 3 to 5 branches. All overlapping branches, crossed branches, and parallel branches should also be cut off, mainly starting from the base, to increase the light transmittance within the crown.

4. Pruning during dormancy

Pruning during dormancy is an important condition for pruning ball pine. Even in the winter dormancy period, proper pruning is required. At this time, light pruning is mainly used to clean diseased and insect-infested branches and dead branches on the plant, thin out new branches at the base, reduce nutrient consumption, and promote healthy growth of the plant.

Tips for pruning ball pine

1. Pinus sphaerocephala is prone to growing side branches. If you do not pay attention to pruning during the breeding process, the arbitrary growth of branches may cause the branches to be too dense and messy, affecting the ornamental value.

2. Shaping and pruning of ball pine. When cultivating ball pine, it is necessary to trim the shape of the ball pine to make it have a better shape and higher ornamental value.

3. Other pruning requirements, such as pruning branches and then taking cuttings, or pruning flowering parts.