How to prune cassia?

Gardenia is loved for its pure white flowers and charming fragrance, but to make it bloom profusely, proper care and pruning techniques are key. Many friends just try to prune the plants blindly, which only results in poor growth. So how do you prune the cassia tree?

1. When to prune

Gardenia blooms mainly in spring, so pruning should be avoided starting in autumn because pruning will affect the growth of new shoots and the formation of flower buds. From autumn to winter is the period when new buds of gardenia grow and branches age. Flower buds will form on the tops of the branches that grow during this period. When the weather warms up in spring, gardenias begin to form buds and bloom, so pruning in spring is not advisable. Pruning is appropriate after flowering and can continue until the arrival of autumn.

2. Pruning method

When pruning, avoid over-pruning to avoid affecting the growth and flowering of the plant. Pruning mainly involves removing dead branches, diseased branches and overly dense branches to promote ventilation and light transmission of the plants.

3. Tips for making gardenia bloom twice a year

If the new shoots that grow after flowering in spring are properly cared for and not pruned before autumn, the branches will age quickly and differentiate into flower buds, allowing gardenias to bloom in autumn.

4. Daily maintenance

Gardenia likes acidic soil. When preparing the soil, you can add fermented pine needle soil to increase the acidity. Keep your gardenia in a sunny spot year-round. Use multi-element or high-nitrogen fertilizers during the growing season, and switch to phosphorus and potassium fertilizers before flowering, such as potassium dihydrogen phosphate or Huaduoduo No. 2, to promote flower bud differentiation. Water in moderation, keep the soil slightly moist and avoid waterlogging.

Overall, by following these care and pruning guidelines, your gardenia will not only grow healthily, but will also bloom twice a year.