Growli
Get the app

Pruning guide

How to prune milky bellflower

Best time
Deadhead through summer; cut back hard after first flush fades (July) to encourage re-bloom; cut to ground in autumn
How often
Deadhead regularly; cut back once mid-season and once in autumn; divide every 3–4 years
Technique
Remove spent stems by cutting back to a healthy side shoot or leaf to prompt re-bloom. After autumn, cut all stems to ground level. To divide, lift clumps in early spring or autumn and replant vigorous outer sections.

More milky bellflower care

Pruning milky bellflower — FAQ

When should I prune milky bellflower?

Deadhead through summer; cut back hard after first flush fades (July) to encourage re-bloom; cut to ground in autumn. Remove spent stems by cutting back to a healthy side shoot or leaf to prompt re-bloom. After autumn, cut all stems to ground level. To divide, lift clumps in early spring or autumn and replant vigorous outer sections.

How often does milky bellflower need pruning?

Deadhead regularly; cut back once mid-season and once in autumn; divide every 3–4 years. Milky bellflower is a tall, vigorous perennial that benefits from deadheading to prolong its long summer flowering season. Cutting back hard after the first flush can trigger a second wave of bloom. In autumn, cut stems to ground level. Divide every 3–4 years as clumps become congested and flower quality declines.

How do you prune milky bellflower?

Remove spent stems by cutting back to a healthy side shoot or leaf to prompt re-bloom. After autumn, cut all stems to ground level. To divide, lift clumps in early spring or autumn and replant vigorous outer sections.