Photo: Rasbak, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Greater plantain: when and how to prune
Plantago major
Greater plantain is best pruned in March and August.
| Pruning months | March and August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–October |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Greater plantain: when to prune it?
In August, cut off faded spikes if you want to limit self-seeding; otherwise leave them until March.
Greater plantain: how to prune it?
- Cut the spikes off at the base with scissors; leave the rosette itself.
- For the birds, leave the spikes standing through autumn and winter and clear them in March.
- In a lawn, mowing at 4–6 cm is all it needs.
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?
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Greater plantain · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.