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Pruning guide · Perennial
Balloon flower: when and how to prune
Platycodon grandiflorus
Balloon flower is best pruned in October.
| Pruning months | October |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–September |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Balloon flower: when to prune it?
In October, when the stems turn yellow, cut them down to just above the ground. In summer, snip off faded flowers.
What else to prune in those months? October
Balloon flower: how to prune it?
- Cut off faded flowers one by one, just below the flower.
- In October, cut all the stems down to 5 cm above the ground, so you can still see where the plant is.
- Put in a label straight away: in spring there is nothing to see for a long time.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: October.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Balloon flower flowers in July–September, when it attracts bees.
Caution: Take care when hoeing or digging in spring: the young shoots appear late, often not until May.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Balloon flower · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.