Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)

Photo: Sten Porse, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source

Pruning guide · Dwarf shrub

Bearberry: when and how to prune

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

Bearberry is best pruned in March–April.

Key facts
Pruning monthsMarch–April
FloweringApril–May
Native to BelgiumYes, long naturalised

Bearberry: when to prune it?

In March–April, if needed.

What else to prune in those months? March · April

Bearberry: how to prune it?

  1. No pruning needed.
  2. At most trim stems that grow over paths.

How much to cut, and how often?

  • One pruning period a year: March–April.
  • Grows best when left alone. Only remove dead, diseased or awkward branches.

What does it mean for wildlife?

  • As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.

Common mistakes

  • Pruning too much: it grows best when left alone.

Caution: Don’t cut into the mat without good reason: it grows slowly, and bare patches take a long time to fill in.

Nearby: related pruning guides

Similar to: Difference from cowberry

Plant profile: Bearberry · Pruning calendar and basic rules

This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.

Laden…