Photo: Kurt Stüber [1], CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Cheddar pink: when and how to prune
Dianthus gratianopolitanus
Cheddar pink is best pruned in July.
| Pruning months | July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–July |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Cheddar pink: when to prune it?
Straight after flowering, in July. Otherwise it needs hardly any pruning.
What else to prune in those months? July
Cheddar pink: how to prune it?
- Cut all spent flower stems back to the blue-grey cushion.
- At the same time, lightly trim the mat with shears to keep it compact.
- In spring, pull out any dead or discoloured leaves from the cushion.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: July.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Cheddar pink flowers in May–July, when it attracts bees and butterflies.
- 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 cut deep into old, bare stems: they regrow poorly.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Cheddar pink · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.