Lollipop plant is an umbrella term for any kind of plant or tree that has been pruned into a single tall stem or trunk and a rounded canopy to resemble the shape of a lollipop. If maintained properly, these plants can be a stylish addition to your home. The maintenance generally involves careful pruning and shaping. Read on to find out more about these types of plants and their suitability for your home.
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Growing and caring for lollipop plants
Consistent care and maintenance is the key to retain the beauty of lollipop plants. Here are some essential tips you can follow:
Correct plant selection
The primary step is to choose a plant that is easy to prune and train into retaining the lollipop shape. For this, it is important to consider factors like size and climate compatibility.
Pruning
To obtain the lollipop shape, make sure to prune the side branches and encourage the upward growth of a single stem. For best results, prune during the dormant season to restrict unnecessary growth.
Stem support
To facilitate upward growth, provide the main stem with proper support by using a stake or moss stick.
Regular maintenanceÂ
Make sure to regularly monitor the plant’s growth and prune whenever required. Get rid of extra growth below the canopy as soon as possible before they start affecting the look of the plant.
Watering
Make sure to water the plants regularly and according to their specific needs. Overwatering and underwatering can be equally detrimental to the health of the plant.
Fertilisation
For healthier growth, apply fertilisers suitable to the plant species during the growing season.
Sunlight requirementsÂ
It is also important to ensure that the plant receives adequate sunlight according to its requirements.
Pest and disease control
Keep out an eye for pests and disease infestation. Make sure to provide suitable treatment with solutions that address the specific issue.
Transplanting
If the container cannot hold the plant adequately, you can transplant it into a larger pot or in the ground. This ensures that the plant has enough space for root growth.
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Pests and diseases
Lollipop plants are prone to pests and diseases and need to be taken care of to avoid them. Here are some common infestations affecting such plants:
Aphids, mites and whiteflies
These pests suck the sap out of leaves and cause distorted growth and leaf damage. This issue can be resolved by using insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, beneficial predators, or simply dislodging them with water sprays.
Scale insects
These pests appear in the form of small bumps on stems and leaves and suck the juices from the plants. They can be mitigated by manual removal or application of insecticidal soaps and horticultural oils.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are large, visible pests that can cause serious harm to foliage. Generally they can be manually removed by handpicking. If not, consider using a chemical insecticide to remove them.
Fungal diseases
Diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot are very common. To avoid these, ensure proper spacing between plants for greater air flow, treat with fungicides and remove the affected areas by pruning.
Root rot
Overwatering lollipop plants cause ideal conditions for fungi to thrive on their roots. To avoid this, avoid overwatering the plants and ensure proper soil drainage.
Bacterial infections
Bacteria infestation can cause issues like wilting, leaf spots and cankers. Prompt removal of affected parts, good sanitation and application of copper based fungicides can help mitigate these issues.
FAQs
What plants are best suited for a lollipop shape?
Various shrubs such as ficus varieties, citrus trees, bay laurel, hibiscus and rosemary are suited to the lollipop shape.
What is the best time for pruning?
Pruning yields best results when done in the dormant season such as late winter or early spring before the beginning of new growth.
How often to water a lollipop plant?
Although watering frequency varies according to the plant variety, it is recommended to water them when the topsoil feels dry.
Can I grow lollipop plants indoors?
With adequate sunlight, proper watering and enough space, lollipop plants can easily thrive indoors.
What are some common mistakes to avoid while caring for lollipop plants?
Over-pruning, over or irregular watering, wrong soil usage and neglecting stem support are some common mistakes that can affect the plant health.
How do I ensure that the lollipop plant retains its shape?
Regular pruning for the removal of new growth and promoting upward growth are essential to maintain the shape of these plants.
Are there specific fertilisers available for lollipop plants?
Yes, a balanced fertiliser formulated for the specific type of plant helps in healthy growth.
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