How to prune Sophora japonica

Time to prune

If you want the Sophora japonica to grow better, you must prune it in summer and winter respectively.

Pruning methods

Pruning in summer: Summer is the most vigorous growth period of Sophora japonica. Pruning at this time is mainly to improve its tree shape and make it grow more ornamental. Summer pruning is also essential. You can cut off the branches that have grown this year and are somewhat drooping, leaving only 1/4 or 1/3. This will promote the growth of side buds and make the plant more lush. At the same time, prune the branches that are too long to prevent them from continuing to grow and consuming nutrients. You can also shorten the main trunk to allow more branches to grow and make other branches thicker.

Winter pruning: It can be said that summer pruning is to make its growth more graceful, while winter pruning shapes the overall tree shape. After all the leaves fall in winter, the overall distribution of branches can be seen more clearly. First, you need to adjust the growth of the main branches. You can tie them up with hemp ropes, artificially change their original shape and direction, and weaken the overly dense parts to make the overall tree shape look more symmetrical. All old, weak, and sick branches should also be cut off. Generally, the parts left after pruning are the thicker and better growing parts, which should be burned or thrown away after pruning.