Top of jade - pruning advice.

[Hallen1997]

looking for advice on what to do with the top.
maybe cut and let grow thinner for taper or just let branch out?

Yes I’m aware of the poor wiring situation. I’ll fix it later.
Thanks for any help!

 

[Carol 83]

Just me, but I would cut the whole top branch off, and make a cutting out of it.

 

[JonW]

Just me, but I would cut the whole top branch off, and make a cutting out of it.

I agree with eventually chopping the top. I'd let it grow out first. The foliage is sparse. I'd get it nice and vigorous at least into mid-summer, or even let it grow out a couple years to thicken. Chopping now, I don't know if you'd get the response your after (back budding).

I was thinking this when I first saw this thread, and came back to edit my post when I saw your thread from last year about insect damage. I think the soil looks like it holds way more water than what I'd use even for my most water-loving plants. It doesn't list your location - if your in Florida or somewhere hot and the tree is outdoor year round, it might be ok, but I'd go with something like pumice to protect the tree from similar damage to the first thread. That's what I'd do before considering pruning - repot when night temps are consistently warm.

 

[Hallen1997]

I agree with eventually chopping the top. I'd let it grow out first. The foliage is sparse. I'd get it nice and vigorous at least into mid-summer, or even let it grow out a couple years to thicken. Chopping now, I don't know if you'd get the response your after (back budding).

I was thinking this when I first saw this thread, and came back to edit my post when I saw your thread from last year about insect damage. I think the soil looks like it holds way more water than what I'd use even for my most water-loving plants. It doesn't list your location - if your in Florida or somewhere hot and the tree is outdoor year round, it might be ok, but I'd go with something like pumice to protect the tree from similar damage to the first thread. That's what I'd do before considering pruning - repot when night temps are consistently warm.

East Alabama. The tree does stay outdoors on apartment balcony but not in direct sunlight. The water cycle seems to be pretty good. The soil dries out every few warm sunny days, but when I repot it I will definitely choose a more appropriate soil. This is what it came with originally and yes I purchased in Panama City Beach area so I guess that adds up. Thanks for the advice !

 

[sorce]

I'd make cutting of all the branches and start em over.

Sorce