Photo: Zidat, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Pruning guide · Annual
Honeywort: when and how to prune
Cerinthe major
Honeywort is best pruned in July.
| Pruning months | July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–August |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Honeywort: when to prune it?
Pruning is not needed. After the first flush, in July, you can cut the plant back by a third.
What else to prune in those months? July
Honeywort: how to prune it?
- Remove faded clusters if you do not want seed.
- Cut back long, sprawling stems by a third in July, just above a leaf.
- At the end of summer, let a few stems set seed for your own sowings.
- Pull up the dead plants in autumn.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: July.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Honeywort flowers in May–August, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Nearby: related pruning guides
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.