Reason # 1: To prevent self-sowing
Has a Columbine on her Location once it has gained a foothold, it can no longer be stopped. After its flowering period is over, it forms numerous tiny seeds. When ripe, these are blown with the wind and like to sow themselves.
also read
- Should the bergenia be cut, and if so, why?
- Is the Columbine poisonous?
- Plant and care for Columbine
If you do not prevent self-sowing by cutting off the immature seed heads or cutting off the withered flowers, you must expect the Columbine to spread in no time at all. Different varieties cross each other and single-variety specimens belong to yesterday.
Reason # 2: To extend the flowering period
Some gardeners cannot get enough of the delicate flowers of the columbine. It's too bad that the Heyday is already over in July. But with a bit of luck, the columbine will bloom again in autumn. To do this, the faded flowers should be cut off radically.
Reason # 3: To prepare for winter
While a columbine that is in the blazing sun grows up to 90 cm high, a columbine in the shade only grows up to 30 cm high. Either way - the withered perennial should be cut back to just above the ground after its flowering period or in autumn. If you forget that, you can do the pruning in the spring.
Reason # 4: To remove sick and damaged parts
It is true that columbines are rarely attacked by diseases. However, in dry seasons they are weakened and for mildew more vulnerable. If you discover infected parts of the plant, cut them immediately. Do not dispose of them on the compost, but in the household waste!
What to look for when cutting
When cutting a columbine, always keep the following points in mind:
- only use clean cutting tools
- as protection from the Toxins wear gloves
- cut back before budding (no later than early March)
- Cut off thick shoots at an angle so that rainwater can run off
Tips & Tricks
Do not cut off columbines in the wild! They are under nature protection!
