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Pruning guide · Annual
California poppy: when and how to prune
Eschscholzia californica
California poppy is best pruned in July.
| Pruning months | July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–September |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
California poppy: when to prune it?
Pruning is hardly needed. In July you can cut sprawling plants back by a third for a new flush of flowers.
What else to prune in those months? July
California poppy: how to prune it?
- Cut the stems back by about a third with scissors.
- Water afterwards if needed; a few weeks later it flowers again.
- In between, remove faded flowers and green seed pods.
- In September, let a few pods ripen if you want it to self-seed.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: July.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- California poppy flowers in June–September, 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.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: California poppy · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.