Photo: Leo Michels, CC0 · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Small nettle: when and how to prune
Urtica urens
Small nettle is best pruned in July–August.
| Pruning months | July–August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–October |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Small nettle: when to prune it?
Not really needed; pull or cut the plants in July–August, before most of the seed is ripe.
Small nettle: how to prune it?
- This small annual needs no pruning.
- If you want fewer seedlings, pull up or cut the plants before they set seed.
- Pulled plants without seed can go on the compost heap, be used as mulch between crops or, like common nettle, go into a bucket for plant feed.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: July–August.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: Always wear gloves and long sleeves: the stinging hairs even get through thin fabric.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Small nettle · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.