How to Trim Cassia

Cassia refers to a genus of trees and shrubs, but may also refer to a separate but similar genus called Senna. The plants range from large trees that can grow up to 60 feet, such as Senna spectabilis, or smaller plants like Feathery Cassia (Cassia artemisioides). They are easily trained and pruned to container or ornamental specimens, but may grow wildly if left unpruned. While pruning is not absolutely necessary for the plants, it is the best way to obtain an ideal crown shape, produce more blooms and control its size.

Pruning shears
Saw

Instructions

- 1
  Cut back limbs with pruning shears while the tree is young, to control shape and produce a strong framework early in its life. Aim for a compact, lush and uniform crown. In small trees, simply snipping off branch ends boosts the fullness of the tree as it is developing.
- 2
  Pinch young shoots between your thumb and forefinger to encourage lateral growth and boost the number of blooms on your cassia plant. This can be accomplished at any point during the growing season.
- 3
  Cut wild-growing stems down to their base, using a saw or shears, once the tree is old and large. This encourages new, flowering growth in older cassia plants that are growing out of control. In many species, the limbs may grow droopy and obstruct pathways if not removed.
- 4
  Remove withered, dead or damaged branches to maintain health and vigor in the plant. The elimination of diseased or infested stems helps keep the plant looking its best and prevents the spread of such problems.
- 5
  Prune potted cassia heavily, cutting limbs back with hand pruners to a size that the container can support. Container growing can be successful with species including winter cassia (Cassia bicapsularis) and Senna spectabilis. Although Senna spectabilis can grow to 60 feet, it usually grows smaller with training and can be pruned for use on decks and patios.

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