Photo: KENPEI, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Bugle: when and how to prune
Ajuga reptans
Bugle is best pruned in July.
| Pruning months | July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | April–June |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Bugle: when to prune it?
After flowering, in July, cut or mow off the spent flower spikes. No other pruning is needed.
What else to prune in those months? July
Bugle: how to prune it?
- Cut the flower stems just above the leaves, or run the mower over the carpet on its highest setting.
- In March, remove leaves that are brown or damaged by frost.
- Pull up runners that creep beyond the bed.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: July.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Bugle flowers in April–June, when it attracts bees.
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: Variegated cultivars sometimes produce plain green rosettes: remove them at once, or they will take over the carpet.
Nearby: related pruning guides
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.