Photo: Bernd Haynold, CC BY 2.5 · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Nottingham catchfly: when and how to prune
Silene nutans
Nottingham catchfly is best pruned in March and September.
| Pruning months | March and September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–August |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Nottingham catchfly: when to prune it?
In September, after the seed has ripened, or in March if you leave the stems standing over winter.
Nottingham catchfly: how to prune it?
- Leave the faded stems until the capsules are open and the seed has dropped.
- Then cut the flower stems back to just above the rosette; leave the rosette itself.
- If you want to keep the stems as shelter for small insects, only cut them in March.
- In a small meadow: mow in September at 5–8 cm and remove the cuttings after a few days.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and September. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: Do not cut off the rosette: it stays green all winter and the plant needs it to flower next year.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Nottingham catchfly · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.