The question of how to prune a crown of thorns has been debated for years among rose growers. Most roses are actually quite healthy and thrive on their own when given the proper care. But some roses, especially old ones, will suffer if not properly cared for. Thorns usually grow at the base of the main stem, so any pruning that should be done will take place where the plant usually grows.
To prune the crown of thorns, start by removing all of the individual leaves from the plant. You may want to remove the main stem as well. Once you have removed all of the leaves, cut away a slit in the center of each leaf that will allow the stem to hang down. If you have trouble reaching the leaves or cutting them, then you can always use a pair of shears to cut away the necessary space.
Once the leaves have been removed, you need to remove any hollow stems. Many plants have what is called a “corm” or “stem tube,” which is what provides the plant with the nutrients it needs to grow. If the stems have been injured, or if you have pruned them too far, the plant won’t have access to those nutrients. Removing these “corms” from the plant’s interior will improve its nutritional content and make it healthier. This process can also help remove any excess sap that may still be hanging from the leaves.
After the stems and leaves have been removed, you need to bring the soil back up to the surface of the plant. Do this by lightly wetting the soil and moving it around a bit. If you find that the soil is still too moist, add a little water. It’s important to do this soon after the morning dew has dried off. After the soil has been adequately watered, it’s time to start digging.
When digging, be sure to avoid cutting through the stem of the plant, as this can cause damage to the plant and cause it to develop root rot. Instead, dig down until the roots are fully exposed. Move the digger over the area of the soil where the plant is located and work it in a back and forth motion. Be careful not to move too fast though, or you could knock down any growing young plants or the whole stem of the plant could be damaged. If the stem of the plant is damaged, you can’t just cut it off…you need to wait until it has completely healed before you can try to cut it again.
When you’re done, you’ll find that the plant has developed new shoots or buds. These new growths will provide you with plenty of new foliage to enjoy, but it’s best to wait until the new growth has grown to be an anchor for the plant’s roots. Once the stems have established themselves, you can repot them into a larger container and repotting them is a lot easier.
When watering your houseplant, use a watering plan that is designed for your plant’s size. Most houseplants can survive on a weekly watering plan, but larger or smaller plants may require daily watering. Be sure to water the plant deeply, so that the roots are given plenty of time to establish themselves. Repotting your plant at the end of the season is also an option. Just remember that pruning your plant will make it healthier for the following year as well as for the present season.
If you have a large plant such as a ficus, then there’s really no need to worry about pruning. The top inch or two of the stem of a ficus should be strong and healthy. This means that all you need to do is to water the plant deeply, and then just allow the top inch or two of the plant to grow naturally. Pruning your plant during the summer months will prevent the roots from drying out and will allow the root system to spread its roots more effectively.
