Photo: Carole Ritchie, Public domain · source
Pruning guide · Annual
Garden orache: when and how to prune
Atriplex hortensis
Garden orache is best pruned in June–August.
| Pruning months | June–August |
|---|---|
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Garden orache: when to prune it?
Real pruning is not needed. In June–August, pinch out the tips and remove flower spikes if you want to harvest leaves for longer, and cut off the seed sprays before the seed ripens.
Garden orache: how to prune it?
- Pinch out the tip when the plant is about 30 cm tall: it then branches and gives more leaves.
- Cut off flower spikes as soon as they appear if you mainly want leaves.
- If you want sprays for arrangements, leave them and cut them when the seed discs are coloured, before they turn brown and dry.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: June–August.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Don’t cut more than you need to: what stays standing gives insects and birds food and shelter.
Caution: If you let the seed sprays ripen, it will self-seed all over the garden.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Garden orache · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.