Photo: Chris Barton/Gif absarnt, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Shrub
Winged spindle: when and how to prune
Euonymus alatus
Winged spindle is best pruned in November–March.
| Pruning months | November–March |
|---|---|
| Nesting season (15 March–15 August) | Take care in March |
| Flowering | May–June |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Winged spindle: when to prune it?
While dormant in winter (November–March).
Prune while dormant, from November to March, but not in freezing weather.
What else to prune in those months? January · February · March · November · December
Winged spindle: how to prune it?
- Needs little pruning; thin out old or crossing branches.
- It also tolerates shaping: trim an informal hedge into shape in winter.
- Every few years, cut one of the oldest branches off at the base so that young shoots can come through.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: November–March.
- Grows best when left alone. Only remove dead, diseased or awkward branches.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Pruning in March can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
- Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.
Common mistakes
- Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
- Pruning too much: it grows best when left alone.
- Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.
Caution: Finish winter pruning before mid-March, when the nesting season begins. Wear gloves: the twigs and leaves are poisonous too.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Similar to: Difference from spindle
Plant profile: Winged spindle · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.