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Pruning guide · Herb
Feverfew: when and how to prune
Tanacetum parthenium
Feverfew is best pruned in March and July–August.
| Pruning months | March and July–August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–September |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Feverfew: when to prune it?
In July–August after the first flush of flowers, and in March to remove the old stems.
Feverfew: how to prune it?
- Remove spent flowers regularly, before the seed ripens.
- After the first flowering, cut the whole plant back by half for a new flush.
- Leave the leaf rosette in autumn; in March, cut the old, dead stems back to just above the new leaves.
- Wear gloves: the leaves can irritate sensitive skin.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and July–August. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Feverfew flowers in June–September, 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: If you let all the flowers set seed, you will have dozens of seedlings the following year.
Nearby: related pruning guides
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.