Photo: Ivar Leidus, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Lucerne: when and how to prune
Medicago sativa
Lucerne is best pruned in March and July.
| Pruning months | March and July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–September |
| Native to Belgium | No, naturalised |
Lucerne: when to prune it?
In March clear the old stems; in July, after the first flowering, cut back half of the stems.
Lucerne: how to prune it?
- Leave the dead stems standing over winter: small insects overwinter in them.
- In March cut or mow them down to just above the ground, before the new shoots grow.
- In July cut half of the stems back to 10 cm: they flower again in August–September, while the rest feeds the bees.
- In late summer let some set seed if you want it to self-sow.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and July. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Don’t cut more than you need to: what stays standing gives insects and birds food and shelter.
Nearby: related pruning guides
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.