With its characteristic leaf pattern and colors, the miracle shrub immediately catches the eye. However, not everyone is satisfied with their growth pattern. If you want it to branch out better to look bushier, you should lend a hand.
How can the croton branch better?
By making a targeted cut below anoutward-facing eye, the croton can be cut in spring in order to branch out better and therefore grow bushier. However, this houseplant usually branches on its own and pruning is unnecessary.
Why is it worth branching the croton?
A richly branched croton looks fantastic and shows the outside worldmoreof itscolorful leaves Plants are often available in stores that only have a thin main shoot and appear rather lean. If you want this houseplant to be more compact, it is possible to intervene in its branching. In principle, however, the plant also branches out on its own.
How should the croton be cut to branch well?
Cut the croton where there is aoutward-facing eye(bud). This is where the new branch will form. When cutting, it is best to use a sharp and previously cleanedknife to avoid disease transmission.
When is the best time to cut the croton?
The best time to cut the croton to stimulate its branching is inSpring. Alternatively, if necessary, the cut can also be done in autumn.
What should you pay attention to when cutting the croton?
This spurge plant is poisonous and, as is typical for spurge plants, contains a white milky sap that contains some toxic substances. When cutting the croton, caution is required to avoidnocoming intocontactwith theplant juice. Mucous membranes in particular are quickly irritated by it. If you are very sensitive, it is better to wear protective gloves such as gardening gloves or rubber gloves.
What is crucial after cutting the croton?
After cutting the croton, you should be careful not to expose ittodirect sun. It is also advisable to spray it regularly with waterThis promotes new growth. Use low-lime water for watering and spraying.
What factors are important for the croton to grow well?
After cutting, proper care of Codiaeum variegatum is important. This includes adequatelywatering, supplying it withliquid fertilizerand maintaining a hightemperatureandHumidity to ensure.
What disadvantage does the better branching of the croton have?
If you decide to prune to achieve better branching, you should keep one thing in mind: denser growth means that the leaves receiveless lightand their color is formedpaleroff. In addition,the croton grows quiteslowly and it takes time for the new branches to appear.
Tip
Treat a bleeding cut
If the cut on the croton bleeds heavily, it is advisable to stop this flow of milk with wax or charcoal powder. This also prevents pathogens from penetrating the plant through the wound.