Pruning solomon's seal
Advice for October in the Netherlands
Solomon's seal flowers on the arching stems of the current year. Retain those leafy stems after flowering until they die naturally; only the dead remains need removing. Months are guidelines for the Netherlands and Belgium; also assess growth, flowering and the weather forecast.
Solomon's seal — October
Light trim only
Once foliage has yellowed and died in autumn, cut old stems near soil level. Retain green foliage; the calendar is no reason to remove stems that are still alive.
Pay attention to this
- Do not cut off the whole leafy stem after spring flowering.
- Cut above the soil and do not damage rhizomes.
- Keep berries and cuttings away from children and pets; do not eat them.
Frequently asked questions
- Can Solomon's seal be shortened after flowering?
- Not as routine care. Its green leafy stems remain useful until natural autumn yellowing.
- When do the stems disappear?
- This species is deciduous. Cut dead stems in late autumn or tidy remaining debris in spring.
- Does this cover every plant called Solomon's seal?
- This advice is limited to Polygonatum multiflorum. Check the label, especially for an unusual or evergreen plant.