Photo: Prof. Dr. Otto Wilhelm Thomé Flora von Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz 1885, Gera, Germany, Public domain · source
Pruning guide · Herb
Wormwood: when and how to prune
Artemisia absinthium
Wormwood is best pruned in April.
| Pruning months | April |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–September |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Wormwood: when to prune it?
In April, as soon as you see new shoots appearing at the base.
What else to prune in those months? April
Wormwood: how to prune it?
- Cut last year’s stems back to 15–20 cm above the ground, just above new shoots.
- Do not cut into bare old wood without buds: it regrows poorly from there.
- In summer, remove spent flower panicles for a compact, silver plant.
- Do not prune in autumn: the old stems protect the base in winter.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: April.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- If you only cut back in April, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.
Caution: Wear gloves when pruning if you have sensitive skin and wash your hands afterwards. Do not leave prunings where children or animals can reach them. Wormwood is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.