◆ Pruning Pruning should be done at the right time and using the correct technique. It can generally be performed during both the dormant and growing seasons, but the specific timing depends on the plant's habits, cold tolerance, and the purpose of pruning. For example, plants that flower on old wood, such as plum trees or camellias, should be pruned after they bloom. If you prune them too early in the spring before they start to grow, you risk cutting off the flowering branches, which will result in no flowers that season. Therefore, it's best to prune these types of plants within 1–2 weeks after flowering. At this time, the tree is already growing, and the sap flow is strong, so avoid heavy pruning to prevent stress. For plants that flower on new growth, such as crape myrtle, hibiscus, and jasmine, pruning can be done during the dormant period before the buds begin to swell. This helps promote better flowering in the following season. In general, pruning during dormancy should take place in late autumn or early winter, and it's important not to prune too early, as this can encourage unwanted summer shoots that may weaken the plant and reduce flower production. If you're unsure, wait until the sap starts flowing in early spring but before the buds open. When shaping a plant, whether for aesthetic purposes or to improve structure, it's usually best to do so during dormancy. However, light pruning during the growing season can help improve air circulation, remove weak or leggy branches, and maintain an elegant, healthy form. When making cuts, always leave the bud facing outward, and make the cut at a slight angle just above the bud, about 1–2 mm higher. This encourages the branch to grow outward and prevents water from collecting on the cut surface. 1. Tipping: This involves removing the tip of a growing shoot. Hardened branches are cut with shears, while tender shoots can be pinched off by hand. The goal of tipping is to control vertical growth, encourage lateral branching, increase flower production, and improve the overall shape of the plant. For example, dahlia plants can produce over 3,000 flowers through repeated tip pinching. Additionally, this technique can slow down growth and delay blooming. 2. Bud Rubbing: This method involves removing axillary buds, shoots, or flower buds. It helps concentrate nutrients on the main stem, resulting in stronger trunks, larger flowers, and more abundant fruit. 3. Thinning: This is used to adjust the tree’s structure and improve air circulation and light penetration. Dead, diseased, or weak branches, as well as those that are too thin, parallel, or crowded, should be removed. When making cuts, avoid cutting into the next level of branches. Instead, make the cut at a 45-degree angle just above the branch collar. Ensure the cut is smooth. For weaker-growing plants like orchids or white magnolias, only minimal thinning should be done. 4. Root Pruning: This is typically done when transplanting or repotting. For instance, when moving seedlings, the main root is often shortened to encourage the growth of lateral roots. This helps suppress excessive vertical growth and promotes better bud formation. Root pruning is usually done during dormancy, but if the plant is excessively long, it can also be done during the growing season. 5. Staking: Also known as "banding," this technique is used for climbing plants like creeping hydrangea, morning glory, and wisteria. By using bamboo sticks, reeds, or wires, you can guide the branches and vines to climb, enhancing their visual appeal and supporting their growth. ◆ Shaping There are various styles of shaping, such as single-trunk (like single chrysanthemums or single-dahlia), multi-trunk (such as jellyfish-shaped pomegranate or flowering peach), cluster type (like palm bamboo or phoenix-tailed bamboo), and weeping branches (like cliff chrysanthemums or ivy). Depending on your needs and preferences, you can use artistic techniques to carefully design and maintain the desired form, ensuring a balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance. North Pacific Squid Ring,Seafood Squid Ring Frozen,Frozen Food Squid Ring Zhoushan Xifeng aquatic co lid. , https://www.xifengaquatic.com