How to prune the branches of osmanthus

When to prune osmanthus

The best time to do a major pruning of osmanthus is in January or February each year, but light pruning can be done all year round.

The best length for osmanthus cuttings is 8-12 cm. Cut and insert them immediately, with the depth of the cuttings in the soil being about 2/5 of the length. Then press the soil firmly, water them sufficiently, place them in a well-ventilated and cool environment, and spray them with water 1-2 times a day with a sprayer. Generally, new roots of the seedlings will grow after 3-4 months.

Osmanthus pruning branches and leaves

1. Do not prune the whole plant

In the early stages of osmanthus trees, the whole plant does not need to be pruned. Main practices include twisting the tips and pulling the branches. Twisting the tips is to artificially change the growth direction of the tender branches in the early stages of growth to adjust their position and improve their ornamental value. Pulling branches is mainly done by using wire and nailing wooden stakes into the ground to control the growth direction of the thick branches.

2. Small pruning

First, you need to pinch the top of the plant, remove the branches with 3-4 leaves on the top, then prune it, keeping more than half of the branch can promote the growth of buds on the upper part of the branch, and finally cut it back. This is mainly done for the two-year-old long branches. Cut off some of the branches and leaves grown in the previous year and replace the branch group.

3. Extensive pruning

If the pruning is done drastically, the original shape of the tree may be completely changed, and it can be combined with grafting for better results.

Tips for pruning osmanthus

During the growth period of osmanthus, it is necessary to trim off the aging, yellowing, and blackening leaves. In order to make the shape more beautiful, you can trim off the overgrown, overcrowded, and unsightly branches.

If the plant is growing poorly or is diseased, you need to cut off the weak and diseased branches to avoid nutrient waste and the spread of disease.

Osmanthus pruning and flowering

Timely prune the dense branches of osmanthus to increase the overall light transmittance of the plant. Only one branch can be left in the same direction, and let it grow from opposite or oblique positions. This will promote the differentiation of flower buds and make it easier for osmanthus to bloom.

Notes on pruning osmanthus

When pruning an osmanthus tree, you need to disinfect the tools in advance, and the pruning wounds also need to be disinfected to avoid bacterial infection. You can spray a solution of carbendazim for prevention and control.