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Love your perennials?
Want them to bloom all through fall without lifting a finger?
Here’s a simple trick to keep those flowers going strong. No effort needed.
Curious to know how?
Let’s get to it!
Deadheading: The Magic Trick
This might sound fancy, but deadheading is super easy. Think of it like giving your plants a haircut.
All you have to do is snip off the faded or dead blooms. This tells the plant, “Hey, make more flowers!” Instead of putting energy into seed production, they use it to create more beautiful blooms.
You don’t need any special tools—just a pair of scissors or garden snippers will do. Do this regularly, and you’ll keep seeing flowers right through fall.
Feed Your Plants
Just like us, plants need food too, especially if you want them to keep flowering. Add some compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to the soil around your perennials.
This will give them the nutrients they need to keep producing flowers. You don’t have to go overboard—a little feeding goes a long way.
Aim to do this once a month, and your plants will thank you with non-stop blooms.
Water Smart
Watering your perennials the right way can make a world of difference. Instead of watering a little bit every day, give them a deep soak once or twice a week.
This encourages the roots to grow deep and strong, which in turn helps the plant produce more flowers. Make sure the water reaches the root zone.
Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation if you can—these methods are super efficient and do the job well.
Mulch Matters
Mulching does more than keep weeds at bay; it also helps your soil retain moisture and stay cool. This creates the perfect environment for your perennials to thrive.
Spread a layer of organic mulch, like shredded bark or compost, around the base of your plants. Aim for about 2-3 inches thick.
Trust me, this small step goes a long way in keeping your perennials happy and blooming longer.
Pinching Back
Pinching back sounds strange, but it’s actually really easy. All you do is pinch off the growing tips of some of your plants in early summer.
This makes the plant produce more branches, and hence, more flowers. It also keeps the plant from getting too leggy.
Many perennials like mums and asters respond well to this. So don’t be shy—give your plants a little pinch and watch them flourish.
Remove Old Leaves
Removing the old, yellowing leaves can breathe new life into your perennials. This prevents potential diseases and keeps the plant looking fresh and ready to flower.
Plus, it helps the plant direct its energy to the healthy parts. Simply pull or cut off any old, dead, or yellow leaves you see.
It’s a quick and easy way to help your garden look its best and keep those blooms coming.