Photo: KENPEI, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Garden lupin: when and how to prune
Lupinus polyphyllus
Garden lupin is best pruned in July and October.
| Pruning months | July and October |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Native to Belgium | No, naturalised |
Garden lupin: when to prune it?
In July cut off spent spikes; in October–November cut back the dead stems.
Garden lupin: how to prune it?
- Cut spent spikes back to just above a strong leaf, before the pods ripen.
- To collect seed, leave one spike and cut it as soon as the pods turn brown, before they burst open.
- In autumn cut the yellowed leaves and stems back to 5–10 cm above the ground.
- Feel free to leave a few hollow stems until spring for overwintering insects.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: July and October. You don’t have to prune in every one.
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: Keep ripe pods out of reach of children: the seeds look like peas but are poisonous.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Garden lupin · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.