Encourage good form in perennials

To keep perennial borders looking good, continue to water plants in dry periods and provide a liquid feed every month. Deadhead spent blooms regularly, cutting back to just above the next flower bud, or if there are no more buds, cut the stem to the ground to promote new growth at the base. Cut back straggly growth on scrambling hardy geraniums or coreopsis to encourage fresh growth and flowering. Also cut back late-blooming asters and echinaceas for flowers later in the season. Keep an eye on staking and weed growth, too.