Wood sedge (Carex sylvatica)

Photo: Kristian Peters -- Fabelfroh 18:35, 10 August 2006 (UTC), CC BY-SA 3.0 · source

Pruning guide · Ornamental grass

Wood sedge: when and how to prune

Carex sylvatica

Wood sedge is best pruned in March and July.

Key facts
Pruning monthsMarch and July
FloweringMay–June
Native to BelgiumYes

Wood sedge: when to prune it?

An evergreen sedge that you do not cut back. In March you clear out dead leaves; in July you can cut off the spent flower stems.

What else to prune in those months? March · July

Wood sedge: how to prune it?

  1. In March, gently comb or pull the dead leaves out of the tuft and leave the green leaves in place.
  2. Cut the flower stems off at the base after flowering if you want to limit seedlings.
  3. If an old tuft looks very untidy, divide it in spring rather than cutting it short.

How much to cut, and how often?

  • There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and July. 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

Plant profile: Wood sedge · Pruning calendar and basic rules

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

Laden…