Dahlias represent the character of a profusely flowering summer perennial. Special pruning measures are necessary for them to develop their flowers in all their glory. Annual pinching plays an important role here, which positively supports plant growth.
Pinching encourages bushy growth
How to design dahlias
When pinching, shoots of perennials and flowers are shortened when they are still soft. The ideal time has come in early summer. The plants branch at the intersection and grow bushier. At the same time, this measure promotes flowering. However, the flowering time is pushed back a little. If you only cut part of the stems, the flowers will open later and you will enjoy a longer bloom.
benefits
Dahlia varieties are well suited to pinching. It doesn't matter if it's an annual or a perennial variety. If you do not shorten the ornamental perennial, it will develop a long shoot with a flower. If you prune the main shoot, georgines will produce many flowering side shoots. They grow more compact and fall apart less easily because the stems support each other.
time
The earlier you start the measure, the stockier the plant will grow. Pinching takes place from May to June and can then be carried out several times during the summer. However, you should not cut the dahlias during dry periods, because then the flowering plants are dependent on every water reserve.
The cutting technique
Pinch the plants when the flowering shoots are about 20 centimeters tall. The cutting point should be about five to ten centimeters above the ground and directly above a leaf axis, because this is the only way the shoot can sprout again. In order to prolong the flowering period, you should not prune all the stems. The flowers will be all the bigger if you leave some flowering shoots. Experiment with the specimens and see how they develop.
Tips for pruning:
- Pinch off soft shoots with your fingernail
- cut through tougher tissue with scissors
- Rinse faded flowers regularly
Feature: Chelsea Chop
This cutting technique, which originated in England, is a variant of pinching that pursues the same goals. It was named after the Chelsea Flower Show, which takes place in May each year. During this time, flowers and perennials are pruned again, even if they have started numerous buds. With this method, the focus is on a harmonious overall picture in the perennial bed with all plants.
How it works
Cut back the outer shoots on the perennial to a third of their height. This way, the plant will flower in the center first, while the newly set flower buds on the edges will open later. The side shoots grow stronger and protect the longer stems from buckling. This technique also allows creative freedom. You can only trim the front parts of the plant to cover bare spots at the back.