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Pruning guide

How to prune woodruff

Best time
Immediately after spring flowering (May–June)
How often
Once annually after flowering; trim edges as needed for containment
Technique
Use garden shears or scissors to lightly shear the whole mat to about 5 cm (2 in) above the ground after flowering. For containment, cut back spreading edges with a spade or shears at any point in the growing season.

More woodruff care

Pruning woodruff — FAQ

When should I prune woodruff?

Immediately after spring flowering (May–June). Use garden shears or scissors to lightly shear the whole mat to about 5 cm (2 in) above the ground after flowering. For containment, cut back spreading edges with a spade or shears at any point in the growing season.

How often does woodruff need pruning?

Once annually after flowering; trim edges as needed for containment. Sweet woodruff (Galium odoratum) is a low-growing groundcover that rarely needs pruning. After flowering in spring, you can shear the mat lightly to keep it tidy and encourage fresh foliage. Cut back hard if it outgrows its space. Otherwise, minimal intervention is needed.

How do you prune woodruff?

Use garden shears or scissors to lightly shear the whole mat to about 5 cm (2 in) above the ground after flowering. For containment, cut back spreading edges with a spade or shears at any point in the growing season.