Photo: Ivar Leidus, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Bush vetch: when and how to prune
Vicia sepium
Bush vetch is best pruned in March, July and September.
| Pruning months | March, July and September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–August |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Bush vetch: when to prune it?
Clear the dead stems in late February–March; in grassland, mow in July and/or September.
What else to prune in those months? March · July · September
Bush vetch: how to prune it?
- Leave the dead stems standing over winter: insects overwinter in them and the black pods look attractive.
- Cut them off at ground level in late February–March, before the new shoots appear.
- In a flowery meadow: mow in July and/or September and remove the cuttings.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 3 pruning periods a year: March, July 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.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Bush vetch · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.