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How do you prune stone crops?

Pruning Stone Crops: A Quick Guide

Stone crops (also known as sedums) are generally low-maintenance plants that don't require much pruning. However, there are a few situations where pruning can be beneficial:

1. Deadheading:

* Purpose: This removes spent flower stalks, encouraging new blooms and keeping the plant looking tidy.

* How to do it: Simply pinch off the spent flower heads with your fingers.

2. Shaping:

* Purpose: This can be done to create a specific shape or to encourage bushier growth.

* How to do it: Use sharp shears or pruning scissors to cut back any stems that are growing too long or out of shape.

* Timing: Do this after flowering, or in late winter before new growth emerges.

3. Removing diseased or damaged growth:

* Purpose: This helps prevent the spread of disease and encourages healthy growth.

* How to do it: Cut off any diseased or damaged leaves or stems with sharp pruning shears.

* Timing: Do this as soon as you notice any problems.

Important tips:

* Use sharp tools: This will ensure clean cuts that minimize damage to the plant.

* Sterilize your tools: This will help prevent the spread of diseases.

* Don't prune too much: Stone crops are generally slow-growing, so avoid removing more than a third of the plant at any one time.

* Water after pruning: This will help the plant recover from the stress of pruning.

Specific varieties:

Some stone crop varieties are more prone to legginess than others. These may benefit from a more aggressive pruning to encourage bushier growth. Examples include:

* Sedum 'Autumn Joy'

* Sedum 'Matrona'

* Sedum 'Purple Emperor'

Overall, pruning stone crops is a simple process that can help keep them healthy and looking their best. With a little bit of care, you can enjoy the beauty of these low-maintenance plants for years to come.

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