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Pruning guide

How to prune nasturtium officinale

Best time
Harvest tips throughout the growing season; cut back when bolting
How often
Every 1–2 weeks during active growth; hard cutback as needed when bolting
Technique
Pinch or snip growing tips with scissors, taking the top 5–10 cm of each stem. When plants flower, cut entire stems back to within a few centimetres of the base or waterline. This often triggers a flush of fresh, mild-flavoured regrowth.

More nasturtium officinale care

Pruning nasturtium officinale — FAQ

When should I prune nasturtium officinale?

Harvest tips throughout the growing season; cut back when bolting. Pinch or snip growing tips with scissors, taking the top 5–10 cm of each stem. When plants flower, cut entire stems back to within a few centimetres of the base or waterline. This often triggers a flush of fresh, mild-flavoured regrowth.

How often does nasturtium officinale need pruning?

Every 1–2 weeks during active growth; hard cutback as needed when bolting. Watercress benefits from regular harvesting, which acts as natural pruning. Cut stem tips regularly to encourage bushy, tender growth and delay flowering. Once plants bolt and flower, leaves become bitter; cut flowering stems hard back to the crown to refresh growth, or start new cuttings from healthy side shoots.

How do you prune nasturtium officinale?

Pinch or snip growing tips with scissors, taking the top 5–10 cm of each stem. When plants flower, cut entire stems back to within a few centimetres of the base or waterline. This often triggers a flush of fresh, mild-flavoured regrowth.