When is the best time to prune the iron tree?

Pruning time for iron trees

Pruning of cycads is usually done in spring, which is in February or March. At this time, the cycads have new buds but the leaves have not yet unfolded. This is the most appropriate time for pruning. It is best not to prune in summer and winter, as the temperature at this time is not conducive to the recovery of the plant.

Pruning method of cycad

1. Cut off the leaves

The iron tree is highly ornamental. The dead and old branches and leaves at the bottom should be cut off, and the old leaves from the previous year also need to be cut off to reduce nutrient consumption. During the growth process, diseased leaves, yellow leaves, and weak branches and leaves that may appear should also be removed, which can effectively benefit the later growth.

2. Thinning branches and leaves

  In addition to pruning the withered branches and leaves during the growth period of the iron tree, it is also necessary to thin out and shorten the branches and leaves that are too long and dense. Thinning out some branches and leaves should be determined according to the shape of the tree, which will be conducive to the growth of new leaves.

3. Prune the roots

  When the iron tree is raised for one or two years, it will be repotted once. When repotting, you can trim the rotten roots and remove the rotten parts. The roots that are too long and dense should also be partly cut off, leaving healthy roots, and apply a solution of carbendazim to the cut.

Precautions for pruning iron trees

If there is a problem with the growth of the iron tree, you can trim off all the leaves on it, as long as the branches and roots are not dead. After the leaves are trimmed, as long as good maintenance and management measures are taken, it can still grow again.

Usually after pruning, the iron tree needs to be moved to a cool, well-ventilated environment to avoid the stuffy environment. At this time, it does not need watering or fertilizing. After it starts to resume growth, some dilute fertilizer water can be applied to promote the growth of the iron tree.