How to prune sawtooth sunflower

Chelsea chop in late May to early June; cut to ground in early spring. In late May or early June, cut stems back by one-third to one-half to limit height and improve sturdiness. In early spring, cut all overwintered stems to ground level before new growth emerges.

Once mid-season for height control; annual spring cleanup. Sawtooth Sunflower is a tall, vigorous native perennial that can exceed 8 feet. A mid-season Chelsea chop (cutting by half in late May–early June) reduces flopping and controls height. Cut all stems to the ground in early spring. This species spreads vigorously; removing unwanted shoots is ongoing work.

In late May or early June, cut stems back by one-third to one-half to limit height and improve sturdiness. In early spring, cut all overwintered stems to ground level before new growth emerges.