July is the time to refresh your garden for a strong second half of the season. Pruning and deadheading not only improve appearance but also encourage new growth, better blooms, and fewer pests.

1. What is Deadheading? Deadheading is the simple act of removing spent flowers. This redirects energy from seed production back into flowering.

• When to Deadhead: As soon as flowers fade on annuals and perennials like petunias, zinnias, coneflowers, and daisies.
• How to Do It: Snip just above the first healthy set of leaves or buds. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruners.

2. Benefits of Deadheading

• Encourages more blooms
• Prevents self-seeding in aggressive spreaders
• Reduces chances of disease from decaying flowers

3. Pruning Basics Pruning in July is about tidying, shaping, and maintaining health—especially for fast growers.

• Perennials: Trim leggy stems and cut back faded foliage.
• Shrubs: Lightly prune shrubs like spirea or weigela after their first bloom.
• Herbs: Pinch back basil, mint, and oregano regularly to keep them full and flavorful.

4. What to Avoid

• Don’t prune spring-flowering shrubs now (like lilacs or forsythia)—you’ll remove next year’s buds.
• Avoid heavy pruning during extreme heat—light cuts only to prevent stress.

5. Tools You’ll Need

• Bypass pruners for clean cuts
• Garden scissors or snips for flowers
• Gloves and a clean rag to wipe blades with alcohol between plants

Thomas Greenhouse & Gardens Has You Covered Whether you need quality tools, advice on when to prune, or help identifying what needs cutting—stop in and ask! Our team is here to help you shape a healthy, thriving garden.

Snip smart and let your garden shine!