With an average size of about 15 meters, the bluebell or emperor tree (bot. Paulownia) is really not small. For example, if you want to keep it in a bucket, then some pruning and care measures are necessary.

The blue bell tree should be pruned early

How Fast Does a Bluebell Tree Grow?

At least when young, the Paulownia is one of the very fast-growing trees, with annual growth of sometimes more than two meters. However, an older tree also grows up to one meter per year. This shows that you need to start pruning fairly early if you really want to keep your bluebell tree small.

How do I keep my bluebell tree small?

First of all, you should consider how big you want your bluebell tree to be in the end. Would you like to have a bonsai or would you prefer a "normal" container plant? Start pruning before you reach this size so you can trim your bluebell tree into a nice shape. Annual pruning is required to limit growth in size.

With a bonsai, regular pruning of the roots is just as important as above-ground pruning. You can also cut the roots of a container plant, but you should only work carefully here. You should clean your tools thoroughly so that you cannot transmit germs when cutting.

How do I make the first cut?

Since a paulownia can already be two meters high in the first year, you should start cutting it during this time. If you shorten the main shoot, a fork will form on the buds below the cutting point. You can now use this for the shape design. If you cut off one of the two new shoots, your bluebell tree will form a very strong leader.

The essentials in brief:

  • Keeping small possible by appropriate cut
  • Cut off the main stem below the desired size
  • annual pruning required
  • maybe make a radical cut from time to time
  • Pruning roots carefully

tips

Even with regular pruning, your bluebell tree will continue to grow in the bucket. Either shorten it with a radical cut or think about planting it out in the garden.

Category:

Trees