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Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Slender St John’s-wort: when and how to prune
Hypericum pulchrum
Slender St John’s-wort is best pruned in March and October.
| Pruning months | March and October |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–September |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Slender St John’s-wort: when to prune it?
In March, or as early as October if you do not want to leave the stems over winter.
Slender St John’s-wort: how to prune it?
- First leave the faded stems until the capsules are brown and have released their seed.
- Then cut the old, dry stems close to the ground; spare any new shoots at the base.
- Preferably leave some stems standing all winter as shelter for small insects.
- Remove the cuttings so the soil stays poor.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March 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 cut or mow in summer: you would lose flowers and seed.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Slender St John’s-wort · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.