Pruning spiked speedwell
Advice for October in the Netherlands
Spiked speedwell can regrow from its low foliage after the first flush. Cut faded spikes back to above that rosette without shearing the whole base bare. Months are a guide for the Netherlands and Belgium; follow actual growth and flowering.
Spiked speedwell — October
Check this first
Retain Veronica spicata’s low green rosette. Only old dry spikes and dead leaves may be removed; a regrowth cut belongs directly after the first flowering.
Pay attention to this
- Leave the low green rosette beneath the spikes.
- Do not cut still-flowering side spikes.
- Postpone extra summer cutting during drought stress and restore soil moisture first.
Frequently asked questions
- How low should I cut spiked speedwell after flowering?
- Just above the low green leaves. Remove flower stalks, not the living rosette.
- Is a second flowering certain?
- No. Cutting back can help, but cultivar, moisture and temperature determine how many new spikes appear.
- Is this advice for Culver’s root?
- No. This page covers Veronica spicata. The taller Veronicastrum virginicum has its own page.