Photo: Teun Spaans, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Motherwort: when and how to prune
Leonurus cardiaca
Motherwort is best pruned in March and September.
| Pruning months | March and September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–September |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Motherwort: when to prune it?
Leave the stems over winter and cut them down in March, before the new shoots appear. If you want fewer seedlings, cut some back in September.
Motherwort: how to prune it?
- Cut the old stems down to just above the ground in March.
- For fewer seedlings, cut back some of the faded stems in September, before the seed drops.
- Lay the cut stems in bundles in a quiet corner: insects overwintering inside can still crawl out.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and September. 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.
Caution: Wear gloves: the spiny calyx teeth on the faded stems prick.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Motherwort · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.