Birchleaf spiraea (Spiraea betulifolia): when and how to prune

Birchleaf spiraea (Spiraea betulifolia): when to prune it?

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Late February to March for shaping, and lightly after flowering in July.

What else to prune in those months? March · July

Birchleaf spiraea (Spiraea betulifolia): how to prune it?

1. In March, shorten all the stems by a third to a half, just above a bud.
2. Remove dead, weak and crossing stems right at the base.
3. Every few years, cut a few of the oldest stems to the ground to keep the shrub young.
4. In July, cut off the faded flower heads with a short piece of shoot.

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.
• Prune in moderation: never remove more than about a third of the shrub at once.

What does it mean for wildlife?

• Pruning in March and July can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
• Birchleaf spiraea (Spiraea betulifolia) flowers in June–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.
• Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.

Common mistakes

• Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
• Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.

Nearby: related pruning guides

• Japanese spiraea
• Spiraea
• Nippon spiraea (Spiraea nipponica)
• Bridal wreath (Spiraea × vanhouttei)
• Foam of May (Spiraea × arguta)
• Spiraea (Spiraea × cinerea)

Plant profile: Birchleaf spiraea (Spiraea betulifolia) · Pruning calendar and basic rules