How to prune greater knapweed

Deadhead from midsummer onwards; cut back to base in autumn or early spring. Remove spent flower heads at the stem to encourage further blooming. In autumn or early spring, cut dead top growth back to the low basal rosette with secateurs.

Deadhead as needed through summer; once annual cut-back. Greater Knapweed (Centaurea scabiosa) benefits from deadheading to extend the flowering season and prevent excessive self-seeding. Alternatively, leave some seed heads for goldfinches and other birds. Cut back to the basal rosette in autumn or early spring. It naturalises well and needs minimal intervention.

Remove spent flower heads at the stem to encourage further blooming. In autumn or early spring, cut dead top growth back to the low basal rosette with secateurs.