Photo: Hans Hillewaert, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
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Pruning guide · Perennial
Rock soapwort: when and how to prune
Saponaria ocymoides
Rock soapwort is best pruned in July.
| Pruning months | July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–July |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Rock soapwort: when to prune it?
Straight after flowering, in July.
What else to prune in those months? July
Rock soapwort: how to prune it?
- Shorten all stems by a third to a half, above the green part.
- Remove dead or bare stems in March before the new shoots.
- Use sharp secateurs and clear away the clippings.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: July.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Rock soapwort flowers in May–July, 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: The plant sap is not for eating: wash your hands after pruning. Rock soapwort is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Rock soapwort · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.