When is the best time to prune elmleaf plum

Pruning effect of elmleaf plum

Because Prunus armeniaca is a flowering plant, pruning after the flowers fall does not affect its appreciation. During the growth period, you should cut off the overgrown branches, remove the crossing and overlapping branches, and thin out the dense branches to allow for ventilation and light transmission.

Prunus mume pruning time

Prunus armeniaca can be pruned in summer and winter. In summer, it can be done in June, that is, pinch off the branches after the flowers have faded, and also cut short the branches that have bloomed, leaving only 3 or 4 buds at the base.

How many times should the elmleaf plum be pruned?

Every year after the flowers fade, the elm-leaved plum should be pruned, combining thinning and pruning to remove overcrowded branches, dead branches, diseased and insect-infested branches, and weak branches.

Propagation of Prunus mume by cuttings

If you want the elmleaf plum to take root faster, you should choose to prune it in late spring or early autumn.

Pruning method of elmleaf plum

1. Prune the main branches

   The branches of Prunus armeniaca are strong and weak. The strong main branches need to be pruned strongly, and the new branches should be selected as renewal branches and retained, and the rest of the old branches should be cut off. In addition, the weak branches should be pruned slightly, and the sick and weak branches should be cut off to prevent obstruction of the growth of new branches.

2. Trim the side cut

   The side branches are where the flowers grow. They need to be balanced when regulating their growth to ensure the smooth formation of flower buds in the later stage. Strong side branches can promote the differentiation of flower buds, so weak pruning and light cutting are sufficient. Weak side branches can be cut off directly, and branches that do not grow well can also be cut off to reduce unnecessary loss of nutrients.

When pruning, start from the base and do not prune at any position. Generally, pruning is mainly aimed at some unnecessary branches, such as diseased and insect-infested branches, old and dead branches, weak branches, crossed branches, overlapping branches, and overgrown branches.

Precautions for pruning elmleaf plum

After the successful grafting and propagation of Prunus mume, it can be shortened when it grows to 1 meter, and it should be shortened at 65 cm. In the second growing season, the first main branch should be left 45 cm from the ground, the second main branch should be left 10 cm above it, and the third main branch should be left 10 cm above the second main branch.

These three main branches should grow in different directions, with most of the distribution angles being 120 degrees, and the opening angle should be 45 degrees. After selecting the three main branches, some of the remaining branches can be retained as auxiliary branches, and the rest should be removed. When doing winter pruning in the second year, the three main branches should be shortened to one-third of the branch.