Photo: ghislain118 http://www.fleurs-des-montagnes.net, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Bulb or tuber
Nodding onion: when and how to prune
Allium cernuum
Nodding onion is best pruned in March and August.
| Pruning months | March and August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–July |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Nodding onion: when to prune it?
Pruning is not really needed. Cut off the faded heads in August and clear away the dead leaves in March.
Nodding onion: how to prune it?
- After flowering, cut the flower stems back to just above the foliage, unless you want to collect seed or let it self-sow.
- Leave the green leaves until they turn yellow and wither on their own.
- In March, gently pull away the dead leaves and stems or cut them off short.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and August. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Nodding onion flowers in June–July, when it attracts bees and butterflies.
Caution: Never cut off the leaves while they are still green: it weakens the bulb and it will flower less the following year. Nodding onion is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Nodding onion · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.