How to Pinch Back Perennials

Chrysanthemums benefit from pinching every two weeks until buds appear.

Pinching back perennials has a big impact on the appearance of the plant. Pinched plants are bushier, with more lateral branches and more flowers. They are less likely to become leggy or require staking. A pinched stem often results in several new lateral branches and a shorter, more compact plant. Pinching works well for perennials that bloom in late spring, summer or fall, but isn't appropriate for early spring bloomers.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors (optional)

Instructions

1. Time the pinching to suit the plant. Pinch flowers that bloom in fall at two-week intervals until early- or midsummer. If the plant blooms in late spring or early summer, pinch once or twice in spring.

2. Remove 1 to 1 1/2 inches of the growing tip, or just above the topmost unopened leaves, by squeezing it between the thumbnail and forefinger. If you thumbnail is too short you can use scissors.

3. Observe the plant carefully for new buds each time you repeat the process. When you begin to see buds, stop pinching.

Tips & Warnings

• Pinching encourages the plant to produce more flowers but they are often smaller than the flowers on plants that are not pinched.

References

• "Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Perennials"; Ellen Phillips, et al.; 1993
• "Better Homes and Gardens Complete Guide to Flower Gardening"; Susan A. Roth; 1995
• "The Big Book of Flower Gardening"; Time-Life Books; 1997