Reeds grow very quickly and densely. In winter, however, the long stalks dry up and should be cut off to make room for new ones. Learn when to cut reeds and how much to cut off below.

If reeds are not cut in time, the unsightly, dry leaves from the previous year should remain

When is reed cut?

The right time for the pruning is of great importance in order to promote the growth of the reed and not to inhibit it.
Reeds should not be cut back in fall or winter for several reasons:

  • The fronds also look attractive 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 cuts, 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 reeds too early in the year, preferably only when no more forest is to be expected.
But beware: The reeds must not sprout under any circumstances! Otherwise you could damage the tender shoots, interfering with growth and creating brown tips. If you have missed the right time, it is better not to cut back completely this year.

What do you need for the pruning?

If you cut reeds in the garden pond, you should definitely wear high rubber boots so that your feet do not get wet.
You also need robust gardening gloves, because the reeds are often razor-sharp and can lead to injuries.
Finally, you'll need sharp, clean pruning shears with good leverage. Reed stalks are often very broad and robust and you will have a hard time struggling with small pruning shears. Clean the scissors before use to prevent infection!

How much is cut off?

Reeds should be cut down radically. For younger plants, cut back the stalks to about 10cm above the ground. With older reeds you can leave about 20cm.

Where to put the clippings?

The fibrous reed stalks rot very slowly. You should therefore only dispose of small amounts and only chopped up on the compost heap. The remaining waste can be disposed of in the organic waste bin.

Category:

Vegetable garden