Photo: Bernd Haynold, CC BY 2.5 · source
Pruning guide · Ornamental grass
Hairy melic: when and how to prune
Melica ciliata
Hairy melic is best pruned in March and August.
| Pruning months | March and August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–July |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Hairy melic: when to prune it?
In March, cut back or comb out the old foliage. In August, cut off the spent stems if you wish.
Hairy melic: how to prune it?
- In March, cut dead leaves and old stems back to 5–10 cm, or comb them out with your fingers.
- In August, cut off the spent stems if you do not want seedlings or if they look untidy.
- If you leave them, it self-seeds and replaces itself.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and August. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Hairy melic · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.