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Pruning guide · Grass-like plant
Common reed: when and how to prune
Phragmites australis
Common reed is best pruned in February–March.
| Pruning months | February–March |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–September |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Common reed: when to prune it?
In February–March, before the breeding season and before the new shoots appear.
Common reed: how to prune it?
- Cut or mow the old stems just above the ground or the water level.
- Each year leave a different part standing, a third to a half: insects overwinter there and birds will nest there the following year.
- Remove the cuttings so the water does not become richer in nutrients; the stems can be used as mulch or for an insect hotel.
- To weaken reed in a small garden pond: cut it short in June–July, below the water line, after checking that there is no nest.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: February–March.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- If you only cut back in February–March, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: Do not cut reed beds during the breeding season, from March to the end of July, if birds may be nesting there.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Common reed · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.