Cutting Back Salvia

Salvia is a popular flowering plant that adds vibrant colors to any garden. However, it's important to know how to properly cut back salvia to encourage healthy growth and prolong blooming.

Start by using a pair of Felco 2 Pruners to remove any dead or damaged stems. This will improve the overall appearance of the plant and prevent diseases from spreading.

Next, identify the old flower spikes and trim them back to a healthy pair of buds. This process, known as deadheading, will promote new growth and ensure continuous blooming throughout the season.

Finish off by giving the salvia plant a light trim to shape it and remove any straggly or overgrown stems. This will maintain its compact form and prevent it from becoming leggy.

Remember to clean your pruners after each use to prevent the spread of diseases. A simple wipe with a clean cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol will do the trick.

By following these steps and using the right tools, like the Felco 2 Pruners, you can keep your salvia plants looking beautiful and healthy all year round.

Using Felco 2 Pruners to cut back the salvia plant

Deadheading the old flower spikes on the salvia plant

Trimming the salvia plant to shape it and remove overgrown stems

Deadheading Roses

Deadheading is a crucial task when it comes to maintaining healthy and blooming roses. By removing spent flowers, you not only keep your rose bushes looking tidy but also encourage new growth and more blooms.

To deadhead roses, start by cutting the stem below the spent flower, making sure to angle the cut away from the bud. This prevents water from pooling and causing rot.

If you have a rose bush with clusters of flowers, like a floribunda or polyantha rose, you can also remove the entire cluster once it has faded. This will give space for new clusters to form.

For climbing roses, simply remove the entire stem that has finished blooming, cutting it back to a healthy outward-facing bud. This will redirect the energy to new growth and encourage the plant to climb in the desired direction.

Remember to wear gardening gloves when deadheading roses to protect yourself from thorns and clean your pruners after each use.

By deadheading your roses regularly and using the proper technique, you can prolong the blooming period and enjoy a beautiful rose garden.

Properly deadheading a rose bush

Removing a faded cluster of flowers from a rose bush

Baiting for Earwigs

Earwigs are common garden pests that can cause damage to your plants, especially during the growing season. Baiting is an effective method to control their population and protect your garden.

To bait for earwigs, use a pop-up bag filled with a bug and slug killer. Place the bag near the affected plants, especially those prone to earwig infestations, such as dahlias and marigolds.

The bugs will be attracted to the bait and enter the bag, where they will be trapped and eventually die. This helps reduce their numbers and prevent further damage to your garden.

Make sure to read and follow the instructions on the bug and slug killer product for the best results. Remember to dispose of the bag properly and avoid contact with the bait.

By baiting for earwigs and using targeted methods, you can protect your plants from their damaging effects and maintain a healthy garden.

Virginia Creeper Removal

Virginia creeper is a fast-growing vine that can quickly take over your garden if left unchecked. Removing it properly is essential to prevent it from smothering other plants and structures.

Start by cutting back the Virginia creeper to ground level using a pair of Felco 2 Pruners. This will remove the majority of the plant and make the removal process easier.

Next, dig out the remaining roots using a garden trowel or shovel. Be thorough to ensure all the roots are removed, as even a small piece can regenerate and lead to new growth.

Dispose of the Virginia creeper plant and roots in a garbage bag or compost bin. Do not throw it in the regular green waste, as it can easily spread and establish in other areas.

To prevent Virginia creeper from growing back, ensure that the area is properly maintained and regularly check for any regrowth. Repeat the removal process if necessary.

By following these steps and using the right tools, like the Felco 2 Pruners, you can effectively remove Virginia creeper and keep it from taking over your garden.