Buddha's Hand succulents, a hybrid variety of the Crassulaceae family, are characterized by elongated, rounded leaves and can grow into a drooping shape over the years, making them ideal for household potting. Pruning is crucial when caring for Buddha's Hand succulents. Here's an overview of pruning techniques and considerations:
-
Pruning Time: It's best to prune during the spring or autumn seasons when Buddha's Hand succulents are in their active growth phase, as wounds heal faster, and new leaves emerge quickly.
-
Pruning Method: Buddha's Hand succulents are robust, so pruning requires minimal technique. Simply use a sharp knife to cut off the leaves directly.
-
Pruning Techniques: Focus on topping the main shoot, promoting branching, and dwarfing the crown. Thin out weak branches and adjust the tree posture using support, pulling, and hanging methods to enhance its aesthetic appeal. After fruiting, perform spring and summer bud rubbing, top the fruiting branch tip, thin flowers and fruits, promote the balance of shoots and fruits in various periods, and prevent phenomena like big and small years.
-
Post-Pruning Care: Avoid watering immediately after pruning to prevent rotting of wounds. Move the potted plant to a well-ventilated area and wait for the wounds to heal. Additionally, you can use the pruned leaves for propagation.
-
Considerations: It's advisable to prune Buddha's Hand succulents on sunny days and avoid pruning during rainy or overcast weather. After pruning, promptly disinfect the wounds and place the plant in a well-lit, temperature-appropriate environment for growth. Regular watering and fertilization are also essential to promote growth.
Pruning Buddha's Hand succulents not only prevents rotting at wound sites, conserves nutrients, and promotes lateral branch budding for better pot bursting and enhanced ornamental value but also allows the pruned parts to be propagated into new plants.
