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Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Dwarf mallow: when and how to prune
Malva neglecta
Dwarf mallow is best pruned in March and August.
| Pruning months | March and August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–October |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Dwarf mallow: when to prune it?
In August you can shorten long, bare stems; clear the dead stems in March.
Dwarf mallow: how to prune it?
- In August, cut the oldest, bare stems back to 10 cm: the plant regrows and keeps flowering until October.
- Let some of the fruits ripen for new plants.
- Only clear the dead stems in March; in winter they give a little shelter to small creatures.
- For fewer seedlings, cut off faded stems before the fruits turn brown.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and August. 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: Dwarf mallow · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.