Spiderwort (Tradescantia species) are popular perennial herbs known for their vibrant, three-petaled flowers and vigorous growth habit. These plants, which can range from erect to trailing, are frequently used in gardens and containers due to their adaptability and relatively easy care. They produce flowers from late spring into mid-summer, with some varieties blooming into the fall. Spiderworts are valued for their consistent blooms and ability to fill in garden spaces quickly.
Understanding Why and When to Prune
Pruning spiderwort improves health, appearance, and bloom production. Trimming encourages a denser, bushier form, preventing leggy growth. This stimulates more flowers and extends blooming. Pruning also helps prevent excessive self-seeding, preventing it from becoming weedy or invasive. Removing spent or tattered foliage maintains tidiness.
The optimal time for pruning spiderwort varies by goal. Deadheading, removing individual spent flowers, is done regularly to encourage continuous blooming and prevent seed formation. For leggy or overgrown stems, a mid-season cutback rejuvenates and promotes a second flush of flowers. A more substantial pruning, the “Chelsea chop,” is applied in late spring or early summer (late May or early June) before the plant flowers. This involves cutting back by one-third to one-half for more compact growth and a later, abundant bloom.
Pruning Techniques for Spiderwort
Effective pruning promotes robust growth and increased flowering. When deadheading, cut the flower stalk back to the foliage base or next healthy leaves. This directs energy into new blooms, not seeds. For leggy or overgrown stems, use sharp, clean bypass pruners or snips. Cut stems just above a leaf node, the small bump where new growth emerges; new growth will sprout here, leading to a bushier plant.
For significant rejuvenation, like the “Chelsea chop,” cut back by one-third to one-half its height. Use garden shears for larger clumps, ensuring clean cuts to minimize plant stress. This heavier cut encourages branching and compact growth, preventing floppiness later in the season. Always sterilize pruning tools with rubbing alcohol or a 10% bleach solution to prevent disease spread. Wearing gloves is advisable when handling spiderwort, as its sap can cause skin irritation.
After Pruning Care
Following pruning, care steps help spiderwort recover and encourage vigorous new growth. Immediately after trimming, water thoroughly to aid recovery; ensure soil is moist but not waterlogged to prevent root issues. Placing the plant in a well-ventilated area helps pruned areas dry and heal properly. While spiderwort does not require heavy feeding, a light application of a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, supports new growth. Apply this monthly during the active growing season.
Monitoring for pests or diseases is important after pruning. Spiderwort is generally pest-resistant, but spider mites or aphids may occasionally appear. Check under leaves and along stems for signs of infestation, like webs or discolored foliage. Promptly address issues with treatments like a strong spray of water or neem oil to maintain plant health. Remove any yellowing or dead leaves to maintain aesthetic appeal and overall plant vigor.