Tough Love in the Garden

I

f you're one of the many gardeners miffed that their chrysanthemums, tall asters, and tall sedums become so leggy that they flop over before the late-summer blossoms open, now's the time for some flop prevention.

Through the month of June Connecticut gardeners can pinch back the growing tips of these perennials. Pinched-back stems form many side shoots below the pinched point. More side shoots means more blossoms on bushier plants. Even already leggy clumps of mums, and tall growing asters and sedum will benefit from a good pinch-back of up to a third of the stem height. Stop pinching once the calendar flips to July so these late-blooming perennials have time to form lots of lovely flowers.

Follow the technique in the photos to tame pinching-back fear.

For other Connecticut style gardening tidbits visit http://www.joenesgarden.com.