Reeds grow very quickly and densely. In winter, however, the long stalks dry out and should be cut off to make new space. Find out when to cut reeds and how much to cut off below.
When and how should you cut reeds?
Answer: Reeds should be cut after winter and before budding, ideally when frost is no longer expected. Cut the stalks with sharp pruning shears about 10-20 cm above the ground, wearing high rubber boots and sturdy gloves.
When should reeds be cut?
The right time for pruning is of great importance in order to promote and not inhibit the growth of the reeds. Reeds should not be pruned in autumn or winter for several reasons:
- The fronds look attractive even in the cold season.
- The dense stalks offer small animals a winter retreat.
- The leaves protect the roots from frost and moisture.
- If the stalks are cut before winter, moisture penetrates the interfaces, which can lead to rot.
Therefore, reeds should only be cut after winter. In order not to expose the roots unprotected to the cold, you should not cut back the reeds too early in the year, ideally only when no more forest is expected. But be careful: the reeds should under no circumstances be allowed to sprout yet! Otherwise you could damage the tender shoots, impairing growth and creating brown tips. If you have missed the right time, it is better to avoid pruning completely this year.
What do you need for pruning?
If you cut reeds in the garden pond, you should definitely wear high rubber boots so that you don't get your feet wet.
You also need robust gardening gloves, because the reeds are often razor-sharp and can cause injuries. Last but not least, you need a pair of sharp, clean secateurs (€14.00 on Amazon) with good leverage. Reeds are often very wide and robust and you will have a hard time with a small pair of secateurs. Clean the scissors before use to prevent infections!
How much will be cut off?
Reeds should be radically cut down. For younger plants, cut the stalks back to about 10cm above the ground. For older reeds you can leave around 20cm.
Where do the clippings go?
The fibrous reed stalks rot very slowly. Therefore, you should only dispose of small quantities and only in a chopped state on the compost heap. The remaining waste can be disposed of in the organic waste bin.
