Photo: Danny S., CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Maiden pink: when and how to prune
Dianthus deltoides
Maiden pink is best pruned in July and September.
| Pruning months | July and September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–September |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Maiden pink: when to prune it?
Lightly after the first flush in July, and again after the last flowers in September.
Maiden pink: how to prune it?
- In July, cut faded flower stems back to just above the mat: it stays compact and keeps flowering.
- In September, after the last flowers, lightly shear the mat without cutting into the bare stems.
- Leave a few flower stems if you want it to self-seed.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: July and September. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Maiden pink flowers in June–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.
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Maiden pink · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.