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Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Perennial sow-thistle: when and how to prune
Sonchus arvensis
Perennial sow-thistle is best pruned in March and August–September.
| Pruning months | March and August–September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–October |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Perennial sow-thistle: when to prune it?
In August–September, cut off the faded stems before the seed ripens; the last stems in March.
What else to prune in those months? March · August · September
Perennial sow-thistle: how to prune it?
- Cut the flowering stems when most heads have faded, before the fluff is released, if you do not want seedlings.
- Leave a few stems for the birds and cut them only in March.
- Leave hollow stems standing in winter: small insects shelter inside.
- Mow a rough verge or corner once a year, in September, and remove the cuttings.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and August–September. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: Do not rotavate or dig where perennial sow-thistle grows: every piece of root becomes a new plant.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Perennial sow-thistle · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.