Photo: Rasbak, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Common ragwort: when and how to prune
Jacobaea vulgaris
Common ragwort is best pruned in August–September.
| Pruning months | August–September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–October |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Common ragwort: when to prune it?
In August–September, as the flowers fade and before the fluff flies.
Common ragwort: how to prune it?
- Let the plant flower first and wait until the cinnabar caterpillars are fully grown, late July–August.
- Cut or mow the flowering stems as soon as the first heads turn fluffy.
- Dispose of the cuttings in a sealed bag with household waste; never in hay, silage or anywhere animals can reach them.
- Be aware that cutting or mowing just before or during flowering often makes the plant live longer and flower again.
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.
Caution: Wear gloves when cutting and pulling, and never leave cut plants where horses, cows or sheep can eat them: wilted and dried they lose their bitter taste but remain poisonous.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Common ragwort · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.