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Chelsea Chop: 11 Plants to Cut Back for a Stunning Summer Performance
What is the Chelsea Chop?
The Chelsea chop is a gardening technique that helps control the size, shape, and flowering time of certain summer-flowering plants. It’s best done in late May, around the time of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
Why Do the Chelsea Chop?
By cutting back your plants, you’ll encourage them to produce more flowers. It also helps control their height and shape, making them less likely to flop over in windy weather.
How to Do the Chelsea Chop
To do the Chelsea chop, simply cut back your plants by about one-third. Make sure to water them well and give them some fertilizer after you cut them back.
11 Plants to Chelsea Chop
Here are 11 plants that respond well to the Chelsea chop:
- Phlox
- Achillea
- Campanulas
- Asters
- Echinacea
- Rudbeckias
- Sedums
- Penstemons
- Heleniums
- Nepeta
- Helianthus (perennial varieties only)
Tips for Success
- Cut back your plants on a dry day to prevent disease.
- Use sharp shears or a knife to make clean cuts.
- Water your plants well after you cut them back.
- Give your plants some fertilizer to help them recover from the pruning.
By following these tips, you can use the Chelsea chop to get a stunning summer performance from your favorite flowering plants.
