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Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Water-cress: when and how to prune
Nasturtium officinale
Water-cress is best pruned in June and September.
| Pruning months | June and September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–September |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Water-cress: when to prune it?
In June, cut back the old flowering stems; in September, thin the mats.
Water-cress: how to prune it?
- In June, cut stems that have run to flower back to a few nodes above the water; tender new shoots soon follow.
- In September, thin the mats by pulling out old stems, so the water stays open.
- Leave some of the flowers for hoverflies and small bees.
- Leave the removed material on the bank for a day so water creatures can crawl back, then compost it.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: June and September. 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: Water-cress · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.