Photo: Kurt Stüber [1], CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herb
Summer savory: when and how to prune
Satureja hortensis
Summer savory is best pruned in July–August.
| Pruning months | July–August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–September |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Summer savory: when to prune it?
This annual herb needs no real pruning. Regular harvesting in July–August keeps the plant compact and bushy.
Summer savory: how to prune it?
- Pinch out the tips regularly, just above a pair of leaves: this makes the plant branch.
- Just before flowering, cut half the stems for drying; the plant will then regrow.
- Let a few plants flower for the bees and for your own seed.
- Pull the plants up after the first frost and put them on the compost heap.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: July–August.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Summer savory flowers in July–September, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Summer savory · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.