In contrast to other types of cypress, the mussel cypress is one of the varieties that does not grow very tall. So you don't have to cut mussel cypresses in the garden or in containers if you have enough space. If you still want to shorten the plant or care for it as a bonsai, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
How do I cut a mussel cypress correctly?
Muscle cypresses do not necessarily need to be cut as they grow compactly and densely. When making a cut, it is recommended to cut off only a small amount in spring or autumn, use clean cutting tools and wear gloves as the plant is poisonous.
Do mussel cypresses even need to be cut?
Basically, you don't have to cut a mussel cypress at all. The trees grow compact and dense and require no pruning at all.
Cutting mussel cypresses – less is often more
- Pruning in spring or autumn
- do not cut in rain or strong sunshine
- do not cut into old wood
- only use clean cutting tools
The biggest mistake you can make is cutting too much at once. Since the mussel cypress does not grow as quickly and does not grow as tall, severe pruning will weaken it too much.
It's better to use scissors more often and only cut off a little.
Muscle cypress refined or grown?
Muscle cypresses are often sold as grafted plants. If you cut back too much, it can be very detrimental to the plant. Shell cypresses that have been grown or propagated without grafting cause fewer problems.
You can tell that a mussel cypress has been refined by the thickening that can be seen quite far down on the trunk. Sometimes the bark at the top looks different than the bottom.
If there is neither a thickening nor a change in the bark, it is a pulled tree.
Carefully cut grafted mussel cypress trees
If you cut the mussel cypress below the grafting point, the wild form used as a base will appear again. It is therefore advisable to limit the pruning of these plants to the bare minimum.
Use clean tools
Like all cypresses, mussel cypresses occasionally suffer from fungal diseases. Thoroughly clean all cutting devices (€14.00 at Amazon) before cutting and clean them again after use. Here's how to prevent diseases from spreading.
Muscle cypresses are poisonous. Therefore, always wear gloves when cutting.
Tip
A mussel cypress that you want to grow as a bonsai must be cut every six to eight weeks. All shoots and, when repotting, the roots are cut.
