except for the lower-growing cushion types, which require only 2 pinchings. The
number of times and how late in the year you pinch your mums is something you
will want to play around with. You may find that by pinching a bit later you can
delay flowering to a more suitable time for your needs. Keep in mind, however,
that if you get pinch happy you may pinch away any chances of flowering before
cold weather arrives. Mums need several weeks to set bud after the final pinch.
Pinching can be an important aid in maintaining perennial gardens, but it
should be used with discretion. Avoid trying to create a garden full of rounded
forms, all the same height, covered from head to toe in flowers, at the cost of
plants with natural graceful habits and just the right amount of bloom.THINNING
Thinning stems of perennials can help prevent disease, improve the overall
appearance of the plant, produce sturdier stems, and in some cases, increase the
size of flowers produced. Thinning allows more light and air into the plant and
encourages better branching of the remaining stems. In addition to the removal
of entire stems, thinning can mean removing flowers, leaves, or only certain
branches, depending on the gardener’s intentions.
Cut or pinch stems at ground level in the spring, when the plants are a quarter
to a third their mature height. How many stems to thin depends on the type of
plant and its size. In general, thinning 1 in 3 stems is sufficient. This can leave
anywhere from 1 to 4 in. between the stems, depending on the species. Keep theThinning: before and after, here
showing Monarda didyma.PinchinG, disBuddinG, thinninG, and deadleafinG 125