It's best to perform pruning during sunny, high-temperature hours in a day. In the morning, excessive blood flow caused by snoring can lead to nutrient loss. At noon, when temperatures are higher, wounds heal faster and there is less oozing from the cut. However, if pruning occurs after 4 p.m., the wounds are more likely to become infected overnight due to slower healing and increased bacterial exposure.
Before pruning, it's essential to disinfect to prevent cross-infection. Human hands, especially those of smokers, often carry harmful bacteria such as the tobacco mosaic virus. If not properly disinfected, these pathogens can cause widespread infections. Therefore, both your hands and the pruning shears should be thoroughly cleaned with soapy water or an antiseptic solution. When performing pruning, be selective—start with healthy, disease-free plants first, then move on to affected ones. Afterward, collect all debris in a pile and dispose of it properly by burying it, rather than throwing it away, to reduce the risk of spreading disease.
Some farmers mistakenly remove all defects from the base when pruning, which can be counterproductive. This method creates large wounds that allow pathogens to spread quickly up the trunk, making recovery more difficult. The correct approach is to leave about 1 to 2 centimeters of the base intact when cutting. This helps block bacteria from entering the trunk through the wound and also results in smaller cuts, which heal more effectively and reduce the chance of infection.
Pruning is not just about removing damaged parts—it's also about protecting the plant’s overall health. By choosing the right time, practicing proper hygiene, and using the correct technique, you can significantly improve the chances of your plants recovering and thriving. Always stay mindful of the environment and the long-term effects of your actions on the plants you care for.
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