Photo: M a n u e l (M. Martin Vicente), CC BY-SA 2.0 · source
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Pruning guide · Perennial
Willow-leaved sunflower: when and how to prune
Helianthus salicifolius
Willow-leaved sunflower is best pruned in February–March.
| Pruning months | February–March |
|---|---|
| Flowering | September–October |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees, butterflies and birds |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Willow-leaved sunflower: when to prune it?
In late February or March, cut back the dead stems; optionally, cut the shoots back at the end of May.
Willow-leaved sunflower: how to prune it?
- Cut the old stems to 10–15 cm above the ground, before the new shoots appear.
- For a more compact plant, cut the shoots back by a third at the end of May. Flowering starts a little later, but the plant is more stable.
- Leave the seed heads standing in autumn for the birds and cut only in spring.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: February–March.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Willow-leaved sunflower flowers in September–October, when it attracts bees and butterflies.
- If you only cut back in February–March, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Willow-leaved sunflower · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.