How to Trim Tecoma Plant:
In-depth Pruning Guide

Tecoma plants, also known as tecoma stans or yellow bells, are beautiful flowering shrubs that add vibrant color to any garden. However, like any other plant, tecoma plants require regular pruning to maintain their shape, enhance their growth, and promote abundant blooming. In this in-depth pruning guide, we will discuss the best techniques and tips for trimming tecoma plants effectively.

Why Prune Tecoma Plants?

Pruning is an essential part of tecoma plant care for several reasons:

1. Maintain Shape: Pruning helps control the size and shape of the tecoma plant, preventing it from becoming overgrown or unruly.
2. Promote New Growth: Regular pruning stimulates new growth, which leads to a fuller and healthier plant.
3. Enhance Flowering: By removing dead or faded flowers, pruning encourages the production of new blooms.
4. Remove Diseased or Damaged Branches: Pruning allows you to identify and remove any diseased, dead, or damaged branches, promoting overall plant health.

When to Prune Tecoma Plants

The best time to prune tecoma plants is during late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. However, if your tecoma plant has become overgrown or needs immediate maintenance, you can also prune it during the summer months.

It is essential to avoid pruning in the fall or winter when the plant is dormant as it may hinder its ability to withstand cold temperatures and potentially damage the plant.

Tools Needed for Pruning Tecoma Plants

Before you start pruning your tecoma plant, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

1. Pruning Shears: Invest in a pair of quality bypass pruning shears that are sharp and clean.
2. Loppers: For thicker branches, loppers with long handles provide the necessary leverage and cutting power.
3. Gloves: Protect your hands with a pair of sturdy gardening gloves.
4. Disinfectant: To prevent the spread of diseases, use a disinfectant to clean your tools before and after pruning.

Step-by-Step Guide to Pruning Tecoma Plants

Step 1: Assess the Plant

Before you start pruning, take a close look at your tecoma plant. Identify any dead, diseased, or damaged branches that need to be removed. Look for branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other, as well as any suckers growing from the base of the plant.

Step 2: Remove Dead or Diseased Branches

Using your pruning shears, carefully remove any dead or diseased branches by making clean cuts just above a healthy bud or lateral branch. Dispose of the pruned branches properly to prevent the spread of diseases.

Step 3: Thin Out Overgrown Branches

To maintain an open and airy structure, thin out any overgrown branches. Start by removing one-third of the older branches at ground level or by cutting them back to the main stem. This technique encourages new growth and prevents the plant from becoming too dense.

Step 4: Shape the Plant

To shape your tecoma plant, selectively prune branches that are growing in undesirable directions or disrupting the plant’s overall form. Make cuts just above a healthy bud or lateral branch that is facing outward to encourage outward growth.

Step 5: Deadhead Faded Flowers

Regular deadheading, which is the removal of faded flowers, is crucial for promoting continuous blooming in tecoma plants. Use your pruning shears to cut off the spent flowers just above a healthy bud or lateral branch.

Step 6: Prune Suckers

Keep an eye out for suckers, which are shoots that grow from the base of the plant. These suckers can divert energy from the main plant and should be promptly removed. Cut them off as close to the base as possible.

Tips for Pruning Tecoma Plants

• Avoid over-pruning: While tecoma plants benefit from regular pruning, excessive pruning can weaken the plant and inhibit its ability to produce flowers.
• Prune lightly in summer: If your tecoma plant needs some maintenance during the summer months, prune lightly to avoid stressing the plant during its active growing period.
• Disinfect tools: Clean and disinfect your pruning tools before and after each use to prevent the spread of diseases.
• Avoid pruning during extreme weather conditions: Pruning during extremely hot or cold weather can stress the plant. Opt for mild weather conditions when carrying out pruning activities.
• Step back and assess: After each round of pruning, step back and assess the shape and overall appearance of your tecoma plant. This will help you make more informed decisions about further pruning.

By following these guidelines and techniques, you can effectively trim your tecoma plants, ensuring their health, beauty, and continuous blooming. Remember, regular pruning is key to maintaining a vibrant and well-shaped tecoma plant in your garden.