Pruning Lungwort 'Sissinghurst White'

Pulmonaria 'Sissinghurst White' doesn't require traditional pruning, but it does benefit from a tidy-up in June or July after flowering finishes. The main task is to cut back the old flower stems and any tatty, mildewed, or weather-damaged foliage to ground level. Use clean, sharp secateurs or garden shears. This encourages a fresh flush of attractive, silver-spotted leaves that remain ornamental through summer and autumn, and improves air circulation around the crown, reducing the risk of powdery mildew—a common issue with pulmonarias, especially in dry or crowded conditions. If mildew does appear on older leaves during late spring or early summer, don't hesitate to shear the whole plant back hard to about 5 cm above the crown. New foliage will regrow quickly, usually within a few weeks, and will be healthier and more vigorous. Water well after cutting back and apply a thin mulch to support regrowth. In late autumn or early winter, you can remove any remaining tired foliage, though many gardeners prefer to leave it in place as a natural mulch and tidy up in early spring instead, just before new growth emerges. Avoid cutting into the crown itself. Pulmonaria is a low-maintenance perennial; the key is simply to keep it looking fresh and to manage foliage health rather than shaping or controlling size. Deadheading individual spent flowers isn't necessary—cutting back the whole plant after the main flowering period is far more efficient and effective.