Photo: Sphl, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Hawkweed oxtongue: when and how to prune
Picris hieracioides
Hawkweed oxtongue is best pruned in June and October.
| Pruning months | June and October |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–October |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Hawkweed oxtongue: when to prune it?
In October, after flowering; in a wildflower meadow possibly also in early June.
Hawkweed oxtongue: how to prune it?
- Mow short in October and remove the cuttings.
- Leave a strip or a few plants standing into winter or spring: the stems shelter insects.
- A cut in early June keeps the plant lower and more compact; it still flowers profusely in late summer.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: June and October. 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.
Caution: Do not mow in July–September: you would cut off the flowers just when insects need them most.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Hawkweed oxtongue · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.