Photo: Me, Public domain · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Prickly lettuce: when and how to prune
Lactuca serriola
Prickly lettuce is best pruned in August–September.
| Pruning months | August–September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–September |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Prickly lettuce: when to prune it?
In August–September, before the seed ripens, or after it has dispersed.
Prickly lettuce: how to prune it?
- Cut or pull the plants before the fluff is released, if you do not want seedlings.
- Leave a few plants standing until the birds have eaten the seed.
- Leave the hollow, dry stems standing over winter for insects.
- Wear gloves: the stems and leaves prickle and the milky sap is sticky.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: August–September.
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: Prickly lettuce · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.