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Pruning guide · Climber
Bittersweet: when and how to prune
Solanum dulcamara
Bittersweet is best pruned in November–March.
| Pruning months | November–March |
|---|---|
| Nesting season (15 March–15 August) | Take care in March |
| Flowering | June–August |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Bittersweet: when to prune it?
In winter (November–March).
What else to prune in those months? January · February · March · November · December
Bittersweet: how to prune it?
- Little needed: cut back overlong or dead stems.
- It readily reshoots from its woody base: a tangled plant can be cut back close to the ground.
- Clear up the prunings straight away, including any last berries.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: November–March.
- Grows best when left alone. Only remove dead, diseased or awkward branches.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Pruning in March can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
- Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.
Common mistakes
- Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
- Pruning too much: it grows best when left alone.
Caution: Wear gloves and keep prunings with berries away from children and pets: the whole plant is poisonous.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Similar to: Difference from duke of Argyll’s teaplant · Difference from white bryony
Plant profile: Bittersweet · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.