Photo: Joachim Müllerchen (Jom), CC BY-SA 2.0 de · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Sea-kale: when and how to prune
Crambe maritima
Sea-kale is best pruned in July and November.
| Pruning months | July and November |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–July |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Sea-kale: when to prune it?
After flowering, in July, for the flower stalks, and in November for the dead leaves.
Sea-kale: how to prune it?
- Cut spent flower stalks just above the leaves if you do not want seed, or leave a few to ripen.
- In autumn, remove yellowing and dead leaves: they attract slugs and can rot.
- Cut blanched shoots with a sharp knife just above the crown, leaving the buds in the centre.
- Always leave the crown itself alone: that is where next year’s buds are.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: July and November. 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.
Caution: Never cut into the crown or the taproot, and never harvest from wild plants.
Nearby: related pruning guides
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.