Photo: Mel Etitis, CC BY 2.5 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Molly-the-witch: when and how to prune
Paeonia mlokosewitschii
Molly-the-witch is best pruned in October–November.
| Pruning months | October–November |
|---|---|
| Flowering | April–May |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Molly-the-witch: when to prune it?
In October–November, when the foliage turns yellow or brown and dies back.
Molly-the-witch: how to prune it?
- Cut all dead stems to just above the ground.
- Put the foliage in the household waste if the plant was diseased; do not compost it.
- Leave the seed pods in place until they have split open, if you like them.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: October–November.
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: Molly-the-witch is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Molly-the-witch · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.