How to Prune a Pachira Stump
Pachira trees occur naturally in the tropical wetlands of Central and South America and are widely cultivated as indoor ornamental plants for their attractive foliage. Commonly called money trees, pachira stumps sold for home cultivation are typically pruned to sprout foliage from the tips and sides of several 2- to 4-foot-tall woody stumps. Like most tropical houseplants, pachira stumps require occasional pruning to remove yellowed leaves and maintain a tidy appearance, but they must only be pruned once a year to keep the plant from being forced into dormancy. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Prune pachira stumps in early autumn when they have ceased growing for the year. Water the plant thoroughly the day before pruning it.
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Inspect the pachira stump for any yellow, dried or stunted leaves. Look for and remove stems with soft spots or wounds.
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3
Remove the damaged pachira leaves with a utility knife. Press the edge of the knife blade flush against the trunk of the plant. Slice downward through the stem so the leaf is completely severed from the trunk.
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Discard the damaged leaves in a green waste bin or trash can. Avoid composting damaged pachira leaves since they may harbor harmful pathogens or bacteria.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not mistake the natural yellowish-green color of young pachira leaves for yellowing due to damage or disease. Damaged leaves possess a brighter, clearer yellow color.
Use caution when handling sharp instruments such as utility knives.