Photo: Mieoli, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Dwarf shrub
Spiny restharrow: when and how to prune
Ononis spinosa
Spiny restharrow is best pruned in March and September.
| Pruning months | March and September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–September |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Spiny restharrow: when to prune it?
Mow in September, after flowering; in a border, cut away dead stems in March.
Spiny restharrow: how to prune it?
- In September, mow or cut the stems to 5–10 cm above the ground and remove the cuttings.
- In a border you can leave the dead stems until March for insects, then cut them just above the new shoots.
- In a hay meadow, leave a small patch uncut every year for overwintering insects.
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 spines easily break off in the skin.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Spiny restharrow · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.