Cutting the elf flower is not absolutely necessary. But if you want to keep your fairy flower growing vigorously, blooming and looking youthful for many years, you should make cutting an important aspect of care.
When should you cut a fairy flower?
Cutting a fairy flower is not absolutely necessary, but it can help to keep the plant growing vigorously and blooming. Remove old flower heads, cut away unsightly foliage and prune if necessary to avoid overgrowth.
Remove old inflorescences
In order not to waste too much energy, the old inflorescences should be cut off immediately after they have faded. This prevents the fruits from forming with the seeds. The formation of the fruits not only takes a lot of energy from other plants, but also from an elf flower, regardless of what variety it is.
Cut away old leaves
There are many wintergreen varieties. During the winter and early spring their foliage becomes unsightly. If it falls off, it temporarily provides good frost protection in the root area. But rot can quickly form. It is better if you cut away the old leaves. The emergence of new leaves begins in spring.
More reasons to use scissors
Fairy flowers can grow wildly in perfect locations. To avoid overgrowth, radical pruning may sometimes be necessary. This plant tolerates this without any problems.
The plant is fundamentally tough. However, you should not use scissors in summer, but rather when you are resting. Here are more reasons to cut:
- get into shape
- Keep growth low
- remove sick, old, weak shoots
- Remove parts damaged by frost
- propagate through rhizome cuttings (in spring or autumn)
Which cutting tool is suitable for the elf flower?
Many conventional pruning tools are suitable for this ground cover. If you have planted a small area with the elf flower, a pair of secateurs (€14.00 on Amazon) is sufficient to shorten the shoots. If this ground cover has taken up a large area, it is advisable to use hedge trimmers or use a lawn mower to control the growth. Don't worry: the elf flower is robust and will sprout again!
Tip
After cutting the elf flower and especially after a radical cut, it is good to provide the plant with compost. This organic fertilizer causes rapid new growth.
