how to prune perennials
how to prune perennials
Pruning and cutting back plants, is common place for the general healthcare regime in the garden. Performing these tasks will not only tidy up your plants overall appearance but will encourage reoccurring growth that is both healthier and more vigorous. Let's keep reading for how to prune perennials.
The equipment you'll need
This will depend on the sizes of the stems you're cutting, but generally you'll only need snips or secateurs. Save the heavier duty equipment for larger plants, shrubs and trees.
Different types of pruning
There are a number of ways to prune your plants, that will aid better health, overall look and vigor or even just to remove areas of die back. When it comes to the health of your plant, use the '3 D's' rule...Dead, Damaged or Diseased, if parts of the plant looks like it falls into any of these categories, it's best to chop affected areas away and dispose away from your healthy plants. Let's continue reading for other reasons you might prune your perennials.
Pruning to retain shape
- Some plants may outgrow their designated space or may appear a little congested. You can thin out perennials by removing half of the crowded stems, taking the weaker parts of the plant back to the ground. Alternatively, you may wish to divide plants to improve the health to the parent plant whilst increasing your stock elsewhere in the garden.
Pruning to revitalise
When some plants start to fade, growth may start to look a little tired and discoloured. In cases such as this, prune the foliage to where there are signs of fresh growth or take right back to new basal growth. Although this may seem a little severe, it will provide a profusion of healthy, new growth with a bushier habit for the following season.
Pruning during autumn and winter
- Cut stems to the base of your plant or just above any new signs of growth and remove surrounding debris and weeds. Mulch around the base of your newly pruned plant and apply an appropriate feed if necessary during the spring. Alternatively, it's more common practice to leave the dead foliage of your perennial plants to naturally die back, this will aid widlife with shelter during cooler months, whilst also protecting the crown of the plant. If you prefer to cut plants back, just remember to repurpose the cut stems and foliage, perhaps create an insect tower with them!
Pruning during spring
- if you left the foliage on over winter, now is the time to cut back. Ideally to the point where new growth is emerging. Cut any old stems and wood right back to within an inch of the soil level as this will help new shoots to develop and thrive. Remove any debris and weeds, providing a mulch around the base of your plant.
In closing
We hope this simple guide aids you on your journey for happy, healthy looking perennial plants.
