How To Cut Back Hardy Geraniums For A Second Flush Of Flowers

How to Cut Back Hardy Geraniums for a Second Flush of Flowers

Hardy geraniums are a popular garden plant because they are easy to care for and can provide months of colorful blooms. One of the best ways to keep your hardy geraniums looking their best is to cut them back after their first flush of flowers. This will encourage new growth and a second flush of blooms in late summer or early autumn.

When to Cut Back Hardy Geraniums

The best time to cut back hardy geraniums is in late June or early July. This is after the main flush of flowers has finished, but before the plant starts to set seed. If you wait too long to cut back your geraniums, they may not have enough time to produce a second flush of blooms.

How to Cut Back Hardy Geraniums

There are two main ways to cut back hardy geraniums:

• Cut back to the ground. This is the most effective way to encourage a second flush of blooms. Simply cut the stems back to just above ground level.
• Cut back by one-third. This is a less drastic option, but it will still encourage some new growth and a second flush of blooms. Cut the stems back by one-third, just above a leaf node.

What to Do with the Cut Back Material

The cut back material from your hardy geraniums can be composted or used as mulch. If you compost the material, it will add nutrients to your soil and help to suppress weeds. If you use the material as mulch, it will help to keep the soil moist and cool.

Tips for Cutting Back Hardy Geraniums

• Use sharp shears or a pruning knife to cut back your geraniums. This will help to prevent the stems from splitting.
• Cut back the stems just above a leaf node. This will encourage new growth from the leaf node.
• If you are cutting back to the ground, be sure to remove any dead or dying leaves.
• Water your geraniums well after cutting them back. This will help them to recover and start to produce new growth.

Conclusion

Cutting back hardy geraniums after their first flush of flowers is a simple way to encourage a second flush of blooms. By following these tips, you can keep your geraniums looking their best all summer long.

Hardy geraniums are a popular choice for gardens because they are low-maintenance and easy to care for. However, one important task that is often overlooked is cutting back the plants after they have finished flowering. This simple step can help to encourage new growth and a second flush of blooms in late summer or early autumn.

There are a few different ways to cut back hardy geraniums. One option is to simply shear the plants back to about 2 inches above the ground. Another option is to use a sharp knife or pair of scissors to cut the plants back to the ground.

No matter which method you choose, it is important to do so after the plants have finished flowering. If you cut the plants back too early, you may lose some of the blooms.

For more information on cutting back hardy geraniums in summer, please visit Garden Wiki. This website has a comprehensive guide on how to care for these beautiful plants.

FAQ of cutting back hardy geraniums in summer

Q: When should I cut back hardy geraniums in summer?

A: Hardy geraniums can be cut back after their first flush of flowers in summer. This will encourage them to produce a second flush of blooms later in the season. However, if you want to enjoy the autumn foliage of some hardy geraniums, you may want to wait until after the leaves have turned color before cutting back.

Q: How far back should I cut hardy geraniums?

A: You can cut hardy geraniums back to ground level. This will encourage them to produce new growth from the base of the plant. However, if you want to keep some of the old foliage, you can cut back the plants by about one-third.

Q: What tools do I need to cut back hardy geraniums?

A: You will need a sharp pair of secateurs or shears to cut back hardy geraniums. Be sure to disinfect your tools before and after use to prevent the spread of disease.

Q: How do I care for hardy geraniums after cutting back?

A: After cutting back hardy geraniums, water them well. You may also want to apply a light layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture.

Q: Can I divide hardy geraniums in summer?

A: Yes, you can divide hardy geraniums in summer. However, this is not necessary, and it is often better to wait until spring. If you do decide to divide hardy geraniums in summer, be sure to water them well after dividing.

Image of cutting back hardy geraniums in summer

5 different images of "cutting back hardy geraniums in summer" from Pinterest:

1. Image of a gardener cutting back a hardy geranium plant with a pair of shears.
2. Image of a close-up of a hardy geranium plant that has been cut back to the ground.
3. Image of a row of hardy geranium plants that have been cut back, with fresh new growth emerging.
4. Image of a gardener showing how to cut back a hardy geranium plant.
5. Image of a healthy hardy geranium plant that has been cut back and is now blooming again.