Photo: Teun Spaans, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Creeping baby’s breath: when and how to prune
Gypsophila repens
Creeping baby’s breath is best pruned in August.
| Pruning months | August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Creeping baby’s breath: when to prune it?
After flowering, in August, with a light trim.
What else to prune in those months? August
Creeping baby’s breath: how to prune it?
- Use shears to remove the faded flower clusters and the tips of the stems.
- Do not cut into the bare, woody part: it rarely resprouts from there.
- In spring, remove dead, brown patches from the mat.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: August.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Creeping baby’s breath flowers in June–August, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Caution: Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin: the sap can be irritating. Creeping baby’s breath is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Creeping baby’s breath · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.