Defoliating a Jacaranda Tree

[aramirezo91]

Hello everyone!

My name is Andrea and I'm new to this forum! I'm 30, originally from Venezuela but living in Florida. Although plants have always been a big hobby of mine, it wasn't till a few months ago that I rescued a beautiful Jacaranda sapling and and decided to delve into the bonsai world.

I'm sure I'll have tons of questions soon, but for now I was just wondering how people defoliate Jacaranda trees? The leaves are super different to those in most trees so I'm not sure how to do it!

I attached a picture below. Am I supposed to cut where the blue line is?

Thank you so much in advance and I can't wait to learn from all of you!

[treeman]

Yes.

[shibui]

That is the correct spot to cut the leaves.
The real question is whether you should defoliate your tree.
Defoliation is a technique that seems to fascinate beginners but more experienced growers use defoliation carefully.

Defoliation will rarely give smaller leaves straight off.
Defoliation will weaken your tree because it will have no food factory until new leaves open.
Defoliation will definitely slow growth and development so your little tree will stay small and skinny for many years if you choose to defoliate.
Some times of year are better for defoliation. As you are in Florida and therefore winter (if Florida can be said to have winter) You should check with other growers as to the appropriate time of year in your area.