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Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Betony: when and how to prune
Betonica officinalis
Betony is best pruned in March and September.
| Pruning months | March and September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–September |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Betony: when to prune it?
Cut back old stems in March; mow meadows in September.
Betony: how to prune it?
- Leave the faded stems standing over winter: small insects overwinter in them.
- Cut them back in March to just above the new leaves.
- In a wildflower meadow: mow at 5–10 cm in September and remove the cuttings, so the soil stays poor.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March 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.
Nearby: related pruning guides
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.