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Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Cleavers: when and how to prune
Galium aparine
Cleavers is best pruned in May–June.
| Pruning months | May–June |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–September |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Cleavers: when to prune it?
In May–June, before the fruits ripen, if you want to limit its spread.
Cleavers: how to prune it?
- Carefully untangle the stems from the hedge or border and pull the plant up, roots and all.
- In a wild corner, leave some for caterpillars and other insects.
- Dead plants disappear by themselves in late summer; no need to tidy up.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: May–June.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: Wear gloves and long sleeves: in sensitive people the hooks can cause itching or small red marks on the skin.
Nearby: related pruning guides
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.