Photo: Kurt Stüber [1], CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herb
Garlic chives: when and how to prune
Allium tuberosum
Garlic chives is best pruned in March and September.
| Pruning months | March and September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | August–September |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Garlic chives: when to prune it?
Garlic chives are not really pruned. In March, cut away the dead leaves, and in September the spent flower heads.
Garlic chives: how to prune it?
- In late winter or March, cut last year’s dead leaves back to just above the ground.
- Cut off the flower stems after flowering, before the seed ripens.
- If you want to save seed, leave a few heads and cut them once the capsules split open.
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?
- Garlic chives flowers in August–September, when it attracts bees and butterflies.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Caution: Garlic chives is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Garlic chives · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.