Hibiscus is a beautiful flowering plant that can brighten up any garden. However, if left unattended for too long, they can become overgrown and unsightly. Pruning your hibiscus is essential to keep it healthy and promote new growth. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to prune an overgrown hibiscus.
Why Do You Need to Prune Your Hibiscus?
Pruning helps to maintain the shape and size of your hibiscus plant. It also promotes healthy growth by removing dead or damaged branches and encouraging new ones to grow. Additionally, pruning allows sunlight and air to reach the inner parts of the plant, preventing diseases from developing.
When Should You Prune Your Hibiscus?
The best time to prune your hibiscus is in late winter or early spring when there’s no danger of frost. This gives enough time for new growth before the flowering season starts in summer.
Tools Needed
Before starting with pruning activities on an overgrown hibiscus make sure you have protective gear such as gloves because these plants are thorny. Also get some good quality gardening shears or pruners which will help you cut through branches easily.
Steps To Follow When Trimming An Overgrown Hibicus
Step 1: Remove Dead Or Damaged Branches
Begin by inspecting your hibiscus closely for any signs of damage or disease like black spots on leaves etc,. Cut off any dead or damaged branches right down near their base using sharp shears/pruners making clean cuts at a slight angle Leave about half an inch from live wood while cutting away dead wood so that it heals quickly without further complications.
Step 2: Identify Any Crossed Branches
Take note of crossed branches – those that rub against each other – as these may cause wounds leading into infections if left unchecked; remove them entirely but do not leave stubs that can slow down healing process.
Step 3: Remove Any Unnecessary Branches
Next, look for any branches that are not growing in the direction of your hibiscus plant’s desired shape. Cut them off near their base to create a more uniform appearance and better air circulation within your plant.
Step 4: Cut Back The Remaining Stems To Shape The Plant
Finally, cut back the remaining stems to shape the hibiscus according to its natural form. Start from the top of the plant and work downwards trimming only enough growth so it retains its natural beauty while promoting new blooms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pruning an overgrown hibiscus is vital for maintaining healthy growth and a beautiful looking garden. By following these steps carefully, you can easily trim your hibiscus into shape without damaging it or affecting its overall health. Remember always use sharp shears or pruners when cutting back branches on flowering plants like Hibicus as dull blades may damage them causing further complications down the road if left unchecked.
