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Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Common milkwort: when and how to prune
Polygala vulgaris
Common milkwort is best pruned in August–September.
| Pruning months | August–September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–August |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Common milkwort: when to prune it?
In late August or September, after seed set.
Common milkwort: how to prune it?
- Mow short along with the grassland and remove the cuttings.
- Do not mow from May to July: you would cut away the flowers and the seed.
- In a rock garden, cut the spent stems back to a few centimetres above the base.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: August–September.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Common milkwort · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.