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Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Goat’s-rue: when and how to prune
Galega officinalis
Goat’s-rue is best pruned in March and August.
| Pruning months | March and August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–September |
| Native to Belgium | No, naturalised |
Goat’s-rue: when to prune it?
Faded spikes in August, before the seed ripens. The old stems in March, before the new shoots appear.
Goat’s-rue: how to prune it?
- In August, cut the faded spikes back to above a healthy leaf so that no seed drops.
- Leave the hollow stems standing over winter as shelter for insects.
- In March, cut all the old stems back to 5–10 cm above the ground.
- Wear gloves and do not put the cuttings in a pasture or near animals.
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?
- Don’t cut more than you need to: what stays standing gives insects and birds food and shelter.
Caution: Never give prunings or cuttings to rabbits, guinea pigs, sheep or other livestock: it stays poisonous even when dried.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Goat’s-rue · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.