Aukube, which is only hardy outdoors in mild regions of Germany, makes an impression with its extravagant foliage. You almost don't dare to hurt it with scissors or shorten the shoots
When and how should you cut an aukube?
The Aukube can be cut all year round as long as there is no frost. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to trim the plant, remove bald patches, or achieve the desired shape. Prune in February or March for best results.
Cutting is possible all year round
The Aukube can be cut all year round as long as there is no frost. Otherwise it could be damaged. It proves to tolerate cutting well and regenerates again shortly. She reveals this with rapid new growth.
Reasons for a cut
There are several reasons why it can make sense to pull out scissors in the presence of the Aukube:
- has grown too big (up to 6 m high in the wild, up to 1 m high as a houseplant)
- Prevent baldness
- remove diseased parts
- get into shape
Gentle thinning or radical cutting – both possible
You can lighten your aukube slightly, but you can also cut it down radically. It tolerates cutting right into the old wood and grows again. If it has become too big, it is enough to trim it.
Get into shape – not necessary
Basically the Aukube does not need any cutting. It has a naturally harmonious shape. If you still want to shape your shape, you should start topiary between February and March. As this plant ages, pruning is no longer necessary.
It is better to use secateurs instead of hedge trimmers
Use sharp and clean secateurs to cut the aukube (€14.00 on Amazon). Cutting with hedge trimmers is not recommended. This would cut the beautiful, large and leathery leaves. As a result, the plant no longer looks good.
Cutting to take cuttings
A rather minor reason to cut the aukube is to obtain cuttings. This means that this plant can be propagated easily and quickly. It is best to cut 10 to 15 cm long cuttings in spring or summer!
Tip
As a precaution, wear gloves when cutting the aukube and make sure that all cut parts are thrown away and away from children or pets, as the aukube is poisonous!
