Cultivation and pruning of jade tree

Jade plants include the common jade tree, Kusanagi palm, as well as golden jade tree, flowery jade tree, shovel-leaf jade tree and other varieties. Their appearance and maintenance conditions are roughly the same, and they are all easy to cultivate into old stumps, forming bonsai similar to trees. However, cultivating a high-quality jade tree requires time and careful pruning. Without pruning, the shape of the jade plant may appear messy and lack beauty. But through proper pruning, its shape can be greatly improved. Let’s learn how to grow and prune jade plants.

1. Pruning methods of jade tree

1. Tree-shaped jade tree

This is the simplest and most common method of pruning. Keep a main trunk and tree-shaped crown, and cut off the bottom leaves to form an independent trunk. The height of the trunk can be determined according to personal preference, usually keeping 10 to 20 cm. If the trunk is not straight enough, you can insert chopsticks or something similar into the pot to fix it so that it is straighter.

2. Double-trunk jade tree

When the side buds at the bottom of the jade tree have grown into two thick branches, you can retain the two main trunks and prune the top to form a tree shape. The jade tree pruned in this way has a special beauty, with two main trunks of the same size and harmony.

3. Bonsai shape

Jade plants can not only be pruned into tree shapes, but can also be shaped by stretching and pulling. Note that the trunk of the jade plant is brittle, so be gentle when handling it to avoid breaking it. Use tools such as wire to shape the jade tree according to its original shape, creating bonsai shapes such as cliff style and curved trunk style.

4. Natural pruning

For jade plants that have been growing for many years and have a fixed shape, there is no need to forcibly change their natural shape. You only need to prune branches that are too long or affect the overall shape to keep the plant round and healthy.

2. Breeding methods of Yushu

1. Soil configuration

Jade plant is different from other succulent plants in that it has a thicker taproot. Therefore, it is necessary to use soil with good air permeability and water permeability. It is recommended to mix coal slag and nutrient soil in a 1:1 ratio, or to use river sand, volcanic rock and other materials instead of coal slag. Ensure the air permeability of the soil, avoid water accumulation and root rot, and promote healthy and rapid growth of the root system.

2. Lighting management

Jade plants need plenty of sunlight all year round and should not be in complete shade even in summer. When the temperature is high in summer, you can provide 50% shade to avoid strong direct sunlight that will cause the branches to grow too long. In other seasons, the jade plant should be placed in a place with the most sunlight to promote plant aging and thickening and prevent lodging.

3. Reasonable fertilization

Jade plants are mainly grown for viewing their foliage, so choosing a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and contains other elements will help it grow quickly. Apply fertilizer 2 to 3 times a month to promote the growth of branches, leaves and trunks. Avoid using nitrogen fertilizer alone to prevent nutritional imbalance.

4. Watering principles

Although jade plants don’t require much water, adequate water is the key to rapid growth. Watering should follow the principle of "water thoroughly when dry", that is, wait until the soil in the pot is completely dry before watering thoroughly to avoid frequent watering that may damage the roots. Proper watering methods help the roots and leaves grow healthily.

It is actually very simple to care for jade plants. The key lies in the accumulation of time and careful daily care. If you have a jade plant at home, you might as well try the above-mentioned pruning methods and maintenance tips to give your jade plant new vitality.