Java apple (Syzygium samarangense) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses – PictureThis

Depending on the branches’ thickness, you will need a pair of sharp, sturdy pruning shears and a small hand saw. Sterilize all the tools before and after pruning – especially if you are making cuts on two or more plants. That way, you avoid the spread of plant diseases. All pruning cuts should be made at a 45-degree angle whenever possible. There are two types of pruning cuts: A heading cut is when you prune somewhere along the branch, shortening it instead of removing it completely. Besides shortening, this cut also promotes branching – because it “feels” the lack of foliage at the tip of the branch, the tree starts producing new growth below the cut. Thus, the heading cut is made right above a pair of leaves with buds. A thinning cut is when you trim the branch down to another branch or to the trunk. It can mean cutting one shoot of a branch with multiple tips down to the node or cutting the entire branch down to the trunk, or reducing the number of leaves on the tree. As the name suggests, a thinning cut doesn’t promote new growth. When pruning down to the trunk, always make cuts above the branch collar. The branch collar is the wrinkled area around the base of a larger tree limb. The cells created in the collar will ensure proper wound healing without resorting to products. Pruning the Java apple step-by-step Remove all dead or diseased branches(leaves). Remove the branches that are too thin or dead leaves. That way, they will not spend the plant’s resources while failing to be productive. Prune all crossed branches – those that grow horizontally into the crown Branch crossing the others can interfere with their growth and even damage them, so you should trim them right down to their base (thinning cut). In the same fashion, shorten all the branches that reach the ground or are too low. This process is often called skirting. Inspect the canopy center – if it is too dense, air circulation will become challenging. Cut away the problematic branches(leaves) to create a light, airy center that allows good ventilation.