Photo: Kristian Peters -- Fabelfroh 09:06, 1 November 2006 (UTC), CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Sulphur cinquefoil: when and how to prune
Potentilla recta
Sulphur cinquefoil is best pruned in March and July.
| Pruning months | March and July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Sulphur cinquefoil: when to prune it?
In March to clear old stems, and in July–August after flowering.
Sulphur cinquefoil: how to prune it?
- After flowering, cut the spent stems back to the foliage before the seed ripens.
- In March, cut last year’s dead stems down to just above the ground.
- Weed out seedlings early, while they are still small.
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?
- Sulphur cinquefoil flowers in June–August, 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: Do not throw cut flowers with seed on a cold compost heap or into the countryside: the seed can germinate.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Sulphur cinquefoil · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.