Photo: Carl Axel Magnus Lindman, Public domain · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Honesty: when and how to prune
Lunaria annua
Honesty is best pruned in March and August–September.
| Pruning months | March and August–September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | April–May |
| Native to Belgium | No, naturalised |
Honesty: when to prune it?
In August–September cut seed stems for drying; clear the dead plants in March.
What else to prune in those months? March · August · September
Honesty: how to prune it?
- Cut the stems when the pods start to change colour and hang them upside down in a dry, airy place.
- Then gently rub off the two outer walls to reveal the silver partitions.
- Leave some stems in the garden to self-seed and as a winter silhouette.
- Only clear the dead stems in March: they look good all winter.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and August–September. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Don’t cut more than you need to: what stays standing gives insects and birds food and shelter.
Caution: The plant dies after setting seed. For flowers next year, let it seed or sow some more yourself.
Nearby: related pruning guides
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.