Pinching Mums

Every year my hardy chrysanthemums start blooming in early July, even though I pinch them back. This year I pinched them twice and still they are coming too soon. When and how does one pinch a chrysanthemum properly? Does the amount of direct sun make a difference?

Most northern gardeners worry their chrysanthemums won’t bloom before the snow flies in fall. Pinching mums back to 6 inches helps keep mums compact but it does delay bloom. Those gardening in areas with a long growing season keep pinching their mums until mid July or the first of August. Those gardening in shorter seasons stop pinching in late June to early July. To pinch: remove the top inch or two of new growth once or twice a month to keep plants 6 inches tall. Pinch your plants twice a month to encourage leaf growth and discourage flowering. Keep the soil slightly moist, not wet, and plants fertilized properly to avoid stress that can induce bloom.

Related

Audio

Increase Your Garden’s Beauty with Late Spring Grooming

Audio

Caring for Indoor Florist Mums

Audio

Quick DIY Weekend Projects

Audio

Propagate Perennials with Softwood Stem Cuttings