The Texas Chop!
Have you heard of the Chelsea Chop? It is a famous phrase used across the pond where perennials are trimmed back in late May, coinciding with the famous Chelsea Flower Show in England. The Chelsea Chop helps control plants and encourage lasting blooms. And, here in Texas, we've got our own version for keeping perennials looking their best and blooming longer: the Texas Chop!
When to Chop
The Texas Chop starts now. Around the end of July and first of August, it's time to take a good look at your perennials and get ready to prune. This chop technique entails cutting back your bushier perennials by anywhere from one-third to a half of the plant. It might seem drastic to cut a plant back by half, but trust us, it pays off! This hard prune encourages bushier growth, prevents flopping, and sets your plants up for a spectacular fall show.
Which Plants Like the Texas Chop?
Learning which plants benefit most from the Texas Chop is key. In our Texas gardens, we find great success chopping back: Mystic Spires, Salvia Greggii, Mexican Bush Sage, Gregg’s Mist, Texas Rock Rose, Verbena, and Mexican Mint Marigold . If you’re new to the Texas Chop and a little hesitant, start by shearing only one-third of the plant this year. Over time you will learn which plants benefit from a shear and can adjust your approach. Gardening is all about experimenting and learning as you go!
It is important to note, the Texas Chop is best for those bushier perennials. For plants with single bloom stems, like bee balm, gomphrena, coneflowers, or rudbeckia, it's better to stick to regular deadheading rather than a big chop.
Deep purple Mystic Spires Salvia
Post- Chop Care
After you've given your plants their Texas Chop, give them a little extra love. Consider adding some compost or a gentle fertilizer like fish emulsion. With all the rain we've had in Houston this summer and the heat stress, this will give your plants a much-needed boost as they recover and prepare for their fall bloom.
And don't forget a crucial step: always clean your garden tools after each use to prevent the spread of diseases.
Happy chopping gardeners!
