With about 250 different species of Penstemon (also known as Beardtongue) out there, you’ll find everything from annuals that only last a season to perennials that can handle a bit of a chill. Because they vary so much, knowing when to grab your garden shears can be a little tricky. But don’t worry—beyond just keeping the plant tidy, there are a few great reasons to give your Penstemon a little trim.
Skip the Fall Cleanup
If you’re growing annual Penstemon, you don’t really need to worry about a pruning schedule—they’ll naturally die back once the first frost hits. However, if you have one of the hardier varieties, put the scissors away in the fall! Unless you’re digging them up to move them into a greenhouse for winter, leave the faded foliage alone. Those withered leaves actually act as a natural insulation blanket, protecting the crown of the plant from freezing temperatures. Wait until the fresh growth starts peeking through in the spring to do your big cut-back.
Keep the Blooms Coming
No matter which variety you have in your garden, everyone wants more flowers, right? The secret to a longer blooming season is simple: deadheading. By regularly snipping off those spent flowers, you stop the plant from putting all its energy into making seeds. Instead, it redirects that power into producing a fresh flush of blooms. With a little luck and consistent deadheading, you can keep the color going well into the fall.
Bring the Beauty Indoors
Many Penstemon varieties make fantastic cut flowers for your home. For the longest vase life, try to cut your stems early in the morning while it’s still cool. To keep them looking fresh, give the stems a quick trim every two or three days—this helps them soak up water more efficiently. They’ll stay happy longest in a bright, cool spot away from direct heat. And here’s some peace of mind for parents and pet owners: Penstemon is a non-toxic plant, so it’s perfectly safe to have around the house!
