The Well-Tended Perennial Garden

March 30, 1998
To pinch or not to pinch is not the only question addressed here. Horticulturist DiSabato-Aust affirms that pinching is essential for plant robustness and an extended blooming season. In addition to explaining how and where to pinch a plant, she details correct techniques for deadheading, effectively removing the mystery from perennial pruning by referring to it "as grooming, shaping, shearing or snipping." Recognizing the diverse styles of gardens and gardeners, she demonstrates how different approaches to pruning can produce varied growth and blooming patterns. Also offered is information on site selection, soil preparation, planting and disease and pest control. Most impressive is the extensive encyclopedia of perennials which, drawing principally on her own field experience, focuses on pruning and maintenance practices. Practical appendices include a month-by-month calendar of pruning and maintenance tasks and a list of perennials arranged in 35 categories related to their specific pruning and maintenance requirements. Beth Ann Daye's line drawings and the author's color photos enhance the clarity of the text and make this book invaluable for both home gardeners and professionals.