Pruning lupines – which are also spelled "lupins" – will prolong their blooming and improve their appearance, but cutting back lupines or removing too much growth can harm or even kill the plants, so it's vital to take no more growth than is necessary to remove the spent flowers.

Do you cut back lupins in autumn?

In autumn, cut lupins right back to the ground after collecting seed. Lupins are not long-lived plants – expect to replace plants after about six years.

How do I prune lupins for winter?

Trim back the entire plant to about 7.5 cm (3 inches) from the ground after its annual blooming season has passed in the late summer or autumn. Wait until the plant has turned yellow or brown and the foliage and flower stalks are dry and crunchy.