How to prune pepper trees? When and how to prune

Pruning time of pepper tree

The Sichuan pepper tree can be pruned during the entire dormant period from leaf fall to bud sprouting. In addition, it can also be pruned in summer. Pruning after the peppers are harvested can improve light transmittance, enhance nutrient accumulation, and promote the differentiation of Sichuan pepper buds. Winter pruning should begin after the sap stops flowing, which can reduce nutrient loss.

How to prune a Chinese prickly ash tree

1. Short pruning

The most common pruning method for Sichuan pepper trees is short-cut pruning, which mainly involves cutting back the vigorous and aging main branches to allow them to sprout more side branches. The main branches need to be pruned at 2/3, leaving only 2 to 3 main branches, to reduce nutrient consumption and promote healthy growth of the plant.

2. Thinning

In order to promote the flowering and fruiting of the Sichuan pepper tree, thinning work is necessary. When pruning, cut from the base of the branch, and cut off the dense, overlapping, crossed and weak branches to allow better ventilation and light transmission, and promote the Sichuan pepper tree to bear full and abundant fruits.

3. Pruning old trees

When the Sichuan pepper tree enters the aging period, the weak branches, drooping branches, dead branches and aging branches should be cut off. This can reduce the consumption of nutrients, promote the growth of strong branches and extend the life of the Sichuan pepper tree.

4. Multiple main branch pruning

When pruning multiple main branches, choose 4 to 5 strong branches for cultivation. The rest of the branches can be cut off. The next year, all the side branches on the main branches should be pruned off until 4 to 5 main branches are established. This kind of pruning is beneficial for the plant to fully absorb nutrients and avoid unnecessary nutrient consumption.