Photo: Ivar Leidus, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herb
Valerian: when and how to prune
Valeriana officinalis
Valerian is best pruned in March and August.
| Pruning months | March and August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Valerian: when to prune it?
In August, cut off the faded stems before the seed ripens. Clear away the dead remains in March.
Valerian: how to prune it?
- Cut faded flower stems down to just above the leaf rosette.
- Leave the leaf rosette: it stays green into autumn.
- In March, cut away dead leaves and stems before new growth begins.
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?
- Valerian flowers in June–August, 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.
- 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.