Photo: KENPEI, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Bulb or tuber
Montbretia: when and how to prune
Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora
Montbretia is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–September |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Montbretia: when to prune it?
In March, before the new leaves appear. Leave the old foliage standing all winter.
What else to prune in those months? March
Montbretia: how to prune it?
- Leave the dead foliage over winter: it protects the corms from frost and wet.
- In March, cut all old leaves and stems down to just above the ground.
- Cut off faded spikes in late summer if you do not want seed heads.
- When dividing, remove the old, shrivelled corms at the bottom of the chain.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Montbretia flowers in July–September, when it attracts bees.
Caution: Do not cut the leaves while they are green: the corm uses them to build up strength for next year.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Montbretia · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.