How to prune and top bitter melon and pruning methods

Bitter melon pruning time

Bitter melon can be pruned twice a year. Choose the right time to prune the bitter melon, generally before the flowering period, so as to avoid the loss of nutrients. After the bitter melon is harvested, it should also be pruned again to retain the remaining nutrients so that it can continue to grow.

Bitter melon pruning method

1. Bitter melon needs to be pruned during the growing season, mainly by cutting off weak branches, diseased and insect-infested branches, and dry and long branches. In addition, the too dense branches should be thinned out reasonably to reduce nutrient consumption and increase light transmittance and ventilation.

2. During the growth process of bitter melon, many vines will grow. You need to cut off the thin vines, and you can also cut off the overly dense areas, leaving only the main branches and side branches that can bear fruit. Before the flowering period, trim some branches without flower buds. After the harvest period is over, trim the withered branches and leaves.

3. Pruning bitter melon is to improve the quality of the fruit and ensure the yield. When pruning, pay attention to prevent the invasion of pests and diseases. Disinfect the wound in time to avoid infection. The pruning tools must also be disinfected. After pruning, apply water and fertilizer in time to ensure that it has enough nutrition to promote growth.