The Chelsea Chop

PAUL27

Hi, I've just been reading the GW Chelsea chop article and I understand the reasons for doing so, (mainly delaying flowering for smaller but plentiful flowers later), my question is that the UK has had such a cold spring that plants are really taking time to grow, so should I wait until these plants (herbaceous perennials) are of sufficient growth before cutting back or will I run the risk of cutting too late for flower development this season? I fear cutting them back now (Chelsea week) as they are still quite small and may not recover. I did the chop last year but we had a really warm spring the the plants were twice the size they are at present - any thoughts anyone?

B3

I'm waiting.  there's not a lot to chop at the moment😒

Fairygirl

I've never been able to do it. Nothing big enough at this time of year 

Loxley

I've actually done it to my Asters, which were romping away. But I only gave them a light chop, more of a 'Chelsea Pinch' really. Hoping it will just make them produce side shoots and end up stockier plants.

Obelixx

Nothing to chop here yet.  Everything is so late.

JennyJ

Same here. It'll be in a few weeks time, or maybe not at all this year depending on how things are doing. I normally do asters (Monch and Little Carlow, both not "Aster" any more, officially) and Phlox, and sometimes the things with the long name beginning with H that used to be Sedum.

B3

I'm thinking not at all this year. I'll be lucky if my sedums ( the only ones I do) get big enough for a reasonable display. But who  knows? We're all in uncharted territory this year.
I think those of us down south need some advice from the northerners who garden with a much shorter season.

AnniD

I did a couple of phlox earlier this week, all the rain has made things grow like mad.

Papi Jo

I've already given the Chelsea chop/pinch to the following:

• Aster;
• Penstemon;
• Monarda;
• Phlox;
• Calamintha nepeta.

didyw

I won't wait until September, but I will wait until there becomes a need.