A timely trim can rejuvenate early-flowering perennials, giving a garden a new lease of life in the height of summer, horticultural experts say
Garden enthusiasts are being urged to reach for their pruning shears this month and provide early-flowering perennials with a well-timed cut, promising revitalised foliage and potentially even a second wave of blooms later this summer. Come early July, numerous early-blooming perennials including Oriental poppies, Alchemilla mollis, hardy Geraniums, and Nepeta start to appear tired. Their previously abundant leaves begin to turn brown and deteriorate, making flower beds appear scruffy.
However, horticultural specialists suggest that a tactical pruning session now can restore vitality to these beloved garden plants. “If you cut these perennials back close to the ground and give them a feed, many will respond with fresh green growth and, in some cases, another round of flowering,” The Sunday Gardener said.
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Begin by clearing away the faded foliage and stems to within a few inches of the earth, adding a balanced fertiliser or organic compost, watering thoroughly, and then being patient.
Within a fortnight, gardeners should anticipate seeing a tidy cluster of fresh leaves, and possibly some additional flowers, reports the Express.
Whilst the technique may initially render beds appearing sparse, the eventual benefits justify the brief bareness. For those worried about appearance, a shrewd suggestion is to coordinate the pruning with a summer getaway.
“If you do it just before you go away, you’ll return to a refreshed, revitalised garden,” suggests the guide. Alchemilla mollis, also known as Lady’s Mantle, may appear too lush for a severe cutback, yet gardening gurus confirm it thrives after such treatment.
What might look like an extreme trim will, in just a few weeks, lead to a rejuvenated burst of new leaves.
The “Chelsea Chop” technique is a nifty trick for gardeners to employ in July, breathing new life into plants that might have otherwise finished their display for the year.
To capitalise on this mid-summer gardening strategy, begin by pruning early-blooming perennials like Oriental poppies, Alchemilla mollis, hardy Geraniums, and Nepeta from early to mid-July.
Arm yourself with sharp shears and cut the plants down to just above the soil surface, then pamper them with a hearty feed and a good soak.
Although your flowerbeds may initially seem barren, hold off on feeling disheartened; within a fortnight or so, you’ll witness a resurgence of verdant growth, and often, a bonus round of flowering.
With some dedication and tender loving care, your garden can flaunt a refreshed appearance deep into the season.
