How to prune the beauty plum

Pruning principles of plum blossoms

The beauty plum is relatively resistant to pruning. Generally speaking, the tree shape of the beauty plum is a natural open heart type. The basic rule of pruning is to leave three main branches, and each main branch should have three to four side branches. The pruning period is divided into winter pruning and post-flowering pruning, and the purposes of pruning are shaping and cultivation respectively. Of course, there are different pruning methods for plum blossoms in different growing environments.

Different pruning methods for different plum trees

Pruning of ground-planted plum trees

For ground-planted plum trees, pruning can be done during the seedling stage, when the plant is about half a meter tall. Generally, 3-4 relatively strong branches are retained and allowed to grow freely. It is the natural happy shape formed by the beauty plum.

For mature trees or old plum trees, we must adhere to the principle of "weak pruning of strong branches and strong pruning of weak branches". Because only by strong pruning of weak branches can the old tree form long branches, and then grow new main branches, thus achieving the effect of rejuvenation.

It should be noted that in order to balance different branches, strong branches can be heavily pruned, weak branches can be lightly pruned, and appropriate thinning can be done.

Pruning of old plum trees in potted plants

This is the shaping and pruning of the branches after the beauty plum blossoms have faded. First, you need to cut off the dead and weak branches, and then shorten the branches to leave 2-3 full buds. When pruning, pay attention to the direction of the buds, and when thinning, pay attention to removing the straight branches and leaving the slanted branches.

It should be noted that after the beauty plum sprouts in spring, the buds that are too dense or have deviated from the growth direction should be removed in time, and the method of pinching can be used. This can control the crazy growth of branches and form more flower buds, with obvious effects. When pruning, the intensity of pruning should be determined based on the growth of the plant.

Big Taboos When Pruning Beauty Plum

In addition to these techniques for pruning beauty plums, we also need to know what to pay attention to when pruning.

1. Avoid pruning regardless of tree age

Generally speaking, young trees are suitable for light pruning; mature trees should pay attention to balancing the tree vigor, maintaining the tree shape, and retracting and renewing the main branches; aging trees should keep the trunk renewed, strengthen the crown, and remove old and shriveled branches.

2. Avoid pruning without considering the growth trend

In short, master the principle of "light pruning of strong parts and heavy pruning of weak parts".

3. Avoid pruning regardless of the season

After the plum blossoms bloom in early spring, they should be pruned immediately; newly planted plum trees should be pruned appropriately.