The One Third Rule---cutting back

When to cut back perennials?

We wait all year for our perennials to bloom and so enjoy them that it's hard to know when to cut them back. The rule of thumb that I go by is "One Third." When a stand of flowers is down to one third or less being in good condition, I cut them down, usually to about knee height, and they regain vigor----some rebloom too.

Isn't that a waste of flowers?

Well, I don't think so. I "Vase Up" the best of what's left and enjoy a bouquet or better yet, bring a bouquet to a friend.

My gladioulus bed was near it's productive end for the summer. Glads will NOT rebloom but the entire bed looks better after picking the last few flowers. It's essential to allow the leaves on the plant until they turn brown. The bulbs are nourished and strengthened during this period of time. If you cut back the leaves too soon, you risk having weak blooms the next year.