Photo: Christian Fischer, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Garden speedwell: when and how to prune
Veronica longifolia
Garden speedwell is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–September |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Garden speedwell: when to prune it?
In March, before the new shoots start to grow; in between, you can cut the main spikes back after flowering.
What else to prune in those months? March
Garden speedwell: how to prune it?
- Cut last year’s dried stems down to just above the ground.
- During flowering, cut the main spikes for a bouquet: the side shoots then often keep flowering.
- In autumn, leave a few stems standing as winter decoration and shelter for insects and birds.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Garden speedwell flowers in July–September, when it attracts bees and butterflies.
- If you only cut back in March, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.
Nearby: related pruning guides
- Brooklime
- Gentian speedwell
- Large speedwell
- Prostrate speedwell
- Spiked speedwell
- Hebe (Veronica × franciscana)
Plant profile: Garden speedwell · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.