Photo: Ivar Leidus, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Ragged robin: when and how to prune
Silene flos-cuculi
Ragged robin is best pruned in March and August.
| Pruning months | March and August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–July |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Ragged robin: when to prune it?
In late February–March clear old stems, and in August, after seed set, cut back or mow.
Ragged robin: how to prune it?
- In August, cut the spent stems back to above the rosette once some of the seed has dropped.
- Mow a wet meadow in August or September and remove the cuttings, so the soil does not become richer.
- In late February–March, remove dead stems and brown leaves; leave the green rosette in place.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and August. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Ragged robin flowers in May–July, when it attracts bees and butterflies.
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Ragged robin · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.