Pinching

The technique of pinching plants is used to produce dense, stocky plants and more (but smaller) blossoms. When the growing tip of the stem is removed, the plant's energy is channeled into the side branches and buds, forcing them to grow. Although annuals, perennials, and houseplants are the plants most commonly pinched, woody ornamentals--especially azaleas and rhododendrons--may also be pinched. With your thumbnail and finger, gently squeeze the stem just above a set of leaves until it breaks. Most annuals and perennials are pinched when they are 2 to 4 inches tall, with several sets of leaves. Usually only the growing tip with one set of leaves is removed, but for tall, spindly plants up to a third of the height of the plant may be pinched. Herbaceous plants are usually pinched when they are transplanted into the garden, and any time throughout the season if they become leggy. Pinch off old flowers to encourage more blossoms. Pinch houseplants whenever they become leggy. Pinching woody ornamentals periodically will help save on pruning later. Pinch out the growing tip of any erratically growing branches when the tip is still tender, before it becomes woody. Pinching is also an easy way to harvest sprigs of herbs.