Marigolds can be cut back at different times depending on the age of the plants and the time of year. Here are some guidelines on when and how to cut back marigolds:
1. Pinching Marigolds: When marigold plants are still young and have a few sets of leaves, you can pinch them to promote thicker, bushier growth. Pinching involves using your fingers or pruning shears to remove the top growth, typically down to a leaf node. This encourages the plant to branch out and produce more flowers. Pinching is usually done when the plants are about 6-8 inches tall.
2. Removing Spent Flowers: As marigold flowers fade and start to wilt, it’s a good idea to remove them promptly. This process, known as deadheading, helps to prolong the blooming period and encourages the plant to produce more flowers. Simply snap off the faded flowers or use pruning shears to cut them back to a healthy set of leaves or stems. Deadheading can be done throughout the growing season as needed.
3. Mid-Summer Cutback: In mid-summer, when marigolds may start to look leggy or overgrown, you can perform a more extensive cutback to rejuvenate the plants. Using pruning shears or hedge trimmers, trim back the marigolds by about one-third of their height. This will help to stimulate new growth and promote a more compact and tidy appearance. After the cutback, make sure to water the plants well to help them recover.
4. Fall Cleanup: Once marigolds have finished blooming and the plants start to decline in the fall, it’s time to prepare them for winter. You have a couple of options here. One is to shear the plants to the ground, cutting back all the foliage and stems. This helps to remove any disease or pest-infested plant material and makes cleanup easier. Alternatively, you can simply remove the plants entirely, roots and all, if you prefer a clean slate for the next growing season.
It’s worth noting that marigolds are generally hardy and adaptable plants, so they can tolerate a range of pruning methods. However, it’s always a good idea to assess the specific condition of your plants and make pruning decisions based on their individual needs.
In my personal experience, I have found that regular deadheading and occasional cutbacks have helped to keep my marigolds looking healthy and vibrant throughout the growing season. Experimenting with different pruning techniques can also be a fun way to discover what works best for your particular marigold varieties.