Photo: Photo by David J. Stang, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Salvia: when and how to prune
Salvia × sylvestris
Salvia is best pruned in March and July.
| Pruning months | March and July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–September |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Salvia: when to prune it?
After the first flowering, usually in July, and in March to clear the old stems.
Salvia: how to prune it?
- After the first flush, cut the faded spikes back to just above the leaves or above new side shoots.
- If the plant flops open, cut the whole clump back to 10–15 cm: it regrows compactly within a few weeks.
- Leave the last stems standing over winter; they protect the heart of the plant.
- In March, cut all old stems down to just above the new shoots at the base.
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?
- Salvia flowers in May–September, 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: In March, spare the young shoots at the base: the new plant grows from them.
Nearby: related pruning guides
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.