The pansies and horned violets are the permanent bloomers in the bed and on the balcony. To extend the flowering period, the dead flowers should be removed regularly. Pruning after flowering keeps the plants in shape.
When and how should pansies be cut back?
Should you prune pansies? Yes, pruning pansies and horned violets promotes a longer flowering period. This includes regularly removing spent flowers, thinning out long-grown plants and light pruning after flowering for a second flowering phase.
The pansies and horned violets are quite compact at around 15 to 25 cm high, so pruning is generally not necessary. However, after intensive flowering, the plants often lose their shape, become elongated and unsightly if excessive fertilization is used. Smaller and larger cutting measures, such as: B.
- regular removal of old flowers,
- Thinning out the plants that grow very long,
- Pruning after flowering,
can contribute to a longer flowering period.
Remove dead flowers regularly
Especially with horned violets with their delicate flowers, regular cleaning seems a bit tedious. If you make this effort, you will be rewarded with long-lasting blooms. Removing the old flowers encourages the plants to produce new flowers.
Light pruning for the second flowering
Both the horned violets and the pansies tolerate a slight pruning after the first flowering. After a short recovery period, they often bloom a second time. Cutting out larger parts of the plant prevents elongation and also promotes branching.
After flowering
After the long flowering period, the horned violets often look drained, the leaves change color or get a mealy coating. The perennial horned violets can then be cut back a little more vigorously. At the same time, the larger specimens are divided and new horned violet plants are obtained. Pruning after flowering keeps the plants strong and long-lasting.
Tips & Tricks
The pansies like to self-seed if the location and soil conditions suit them. If this is desired, the flowers should not be removed but left until the seed pods have formed.
