How to prune red leaf holly

When to prune red leaf holly

Red-leaf holly is suitable for pruning before it sprouts in spring, specifically in March. It is also suitable to be done in winter to cut off diseased and insect-infested branches, dry branches, and shorten overgrown branches, mainly for shaping, laying the foundation for the beautiful shape of the plant after sprouting in the spring of the following year.

How to prune the branches of red holly

You can cut off one-fifth of the weaker and thinner branches of the red-leaf holly, leaving only the flower buds. In addition, appropriate pruning is also required according to the growth conditions and crown shape of the red-leaf holly. You can cut it a little lower when pruning, so that it will quickly grow into a suitable shape and size, appearing more natural.

Red leaf holly can be treated with short pruning, which includes light short pruning and heavy short pruning, which can stimulate the growth of branches. More new buds will sprout under the cut and the growth will be better. Heavy short pruning is often used in seedling cultivation, leaving a small number of 3-4 buds at the base of the branches for short pruning. After pruning, only 1-2 buds will develop into strong branches.

The main branches and side branches of the red-leaf holly ball often appear incoordination, which affects the shape of the crown. At this time, pinching can be carried out to adjust the growth momentum of each branch and maintain the shape of the crown. Some tree species that are not cold-resistant in winter can also use this method to stop their growth to ensure safe wintering.

Tips for pruning red-leaf holly

Red-leaf holly is a plant that is very resistant to pruning. Summer is its period of vigorous growth, so it can be pruned in time. In autumn, you can shape it according to your preferences. In addition, you also need to thin out some branches.

When pruning in winter, you can cut off diseased and insect-infested branches, dry branches, and shorten overgrown branches. The main purpose is shaping. This pruning will make the new branches of the red-leaf holly tree thicker next year.

Tips for pruning red leaf holly

There will be wounds on the red-leaf holly after pruning. Be careful to prevent the wounds from getting infected and do not get them wet, otherwise it will cause diseases on the red-leaf holly tree and cause branch blight. If symptoms occur, use medication to treat them in time. You can apply a little quicklime on the wound to prevent infection.