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Penstemon Question

CrazybeeladyCrazybeelady Posts: 778
in Plants

I know I'm meant to cutting things back to new shoots etc around now, but this is my Penstemon currently - this is all last year's growth and it seems to look fine.  Do I still need to cut it back?

Posts

  • KeenOnGreenKeenOnGreen Posts: 1,831
    You don't have to, it looks quite healthy, and it will protect it from any late frosts.  However I usually cut mine back to about 5 inches above the ground in Spring, as it encourages new growth, which always looks more lush and healthy.  
  • shane.farrellshane.farrell Posts: 207
    The main advantages of cutting low down is that it delays the whole plant becoming woody which is unproductive in terms of flowers and also, you double the number of stems so again more flowers. It extends the useful life of the plant.
    You can also use the newer offcuts for cuttings if you want more.
  • CrazybeeladyCrazybeelady Posts: 778
    Ok thanks, I think I'll give it a little trim.
  • didywdidyw Posts: 3,573
    Mine are like this with new growth from the base as well. I plan on cutting them back in a week or so to encourage more new growth and will be looking forward to quite a show!
    Gardening in East Suffolk on dry sandy soil.
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