Three reasons to Chelsea Chop: A Gardener’s Secret to Longer Blooming Flowers
Have you ever heard of the "Chelsea chop"?
It’s a simple pruning technique that can keep your garden looking vibrant and full of flowers all summer long. Named after the Chelsea Flower Show, which takes place in late May, this method involves cutting back certain plants around this time to promote healthier growth and extended blooming periods.
So, which plants benefit from the Chelsea chop?
This technique works wonders on late-flowering perennials like asters, nepeta, geranium, sedums, phlox, and rudbeckia.
How to Chelsea chop?
By trimming these plants by about one-third to one-half, you encourage bushier growth, more stems, and a greater number of flowers. Simply grab a handful, cut down to a set of leaves and add the waste to the compost heap!
Why should you consider the Chelsea chop for your garden?
There are several benefits:
Extended Bloom Time
Chopping back delays flowering, meaning you can enjoy your garden's beauty for longer. For earlier flowering plants chopping can also encourage a second flush, meaning you get an even longer flowering period.
Healthier Plants
Reducing the plant’s height can make them sturdier and less likely to flop over. This is particularly the case with Hylotelephium (sedum) and Nepeta.
More Blooms
Pruning encourages more side shoots to form, leading to a fuller and more impactful display. Who doesn’t want more flowers?
Want to read more?
These handpicked blogs are perfect for summer reading:
The 10 plants you need to achieve a cottage garden
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Investing in your home. The value of professional garden design
