Photo: Kurt Stüber [1], CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Hedgerow crane’s-bill: when and how to prune
Geranium pyrenaicum
Hedgerow crane’s-bill is best pruned in July and September.
| Pruning months | July and September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–October |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Hedgerow crane’s-bill: when to prune it?
In early July, after the first flush, and again in September; in a verge this coincides with the usual mowing.
Hedgerow crane’s-bill: how to prune it?
- Cut or mow the long, sprawling stems back to just above the leaf rosette; it regrows within a few weeks.
- At the second cut, leave some stems with fruits if you want it to self-seed.
- Remove the cuttings so the soil does not become too rich.
- Leave the leaf rosette over winter: in mild winters it often stays green and protects the heart of the plant.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: July and 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 mow too low: if you damage the rosette and the crown of the root, it regrows less well.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Hedgerow crane’s-bill · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.