Stinging Nettle Patch

[Hoggers]

I've noticed that a small patch of Stinging Nettles has appeared in my garden which I'd like to encourage for Butterflies & Co next year. The plants are about 4 inches tall. I dimly recollect reading somewhere that it's best to cut nettles back so as to produce new,fresh growth as this is preferred by the Butterflies. Is this correct? When should I crop it and how much? Cheers,
Hoggers.

[Susie]

There shouldn't be a need to cut them back now as they will die back over the winter anyway. Good luck with them.

[Hoggers]

I've got my fingers crossed for them Susie, thanks! What about next Spring and Summer? Any need to trim them back then, or should I just leave them?

[Neil Hulme]

Hi Hoggers,
Cut back the stingers along the sunny side of the clump in early/mid June each year. The female butterfly is quite choosy and will select young regrowth on which to lay. There's plenty of this available for the spring butterflies, but by doing this you will encourage development of the late summer brood.
Neil

[Hoggers]

Will do Neil, thanks

Hoggers