Photo: Rasbak, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Yarrow: when and how to prune
Achillea millefolium
Yarrow is best pruned in March, July and September.
| Pruning months | March, July and September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–October |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Yarrow: when to prune it?
Remove the old stems in March; in July, cut back after the first flush if you like.
What else to prune in those months? March · July · September
Yarrow: how to prune it?
- In March, cut last year’s dead stems just above the new leaf rosette.
- In July, cut the faded stems back to the leaves: you will get a second flush in September.
- In autumn, leave some of the flower heads: insects overwinter in them and they look lovely with frost.
- In a lawn or meadow, mowing is all it needs.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 3 pruning periods a year: March, July 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.