# Cutting a Horsetail Reed
There is a reason horsetail has survived for the past 230 million years. Once established, this tenacious and invasive plant refuses to give up. Pulling it out only makes it come back stronger as each broken piece of root regenerates, and cutting it only slows it down. Horsetail reed, also called horsetail rush or scoring rush, grows 5 feet tall with stems 1/2 inch around. It grows in wet boggy areas and near water. Cut back horsetail reed to help control its spread. Add the cut stems to flower arrangements or use them to scour your pots like the missionaries did.
Things You'll Need
- Pruning shears
Instructions
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Cut out spore-producing stems as soon as they form to help control horsetail reed. Horsetail reproduces from spores, similar to ferns. The spore heads develop between December and March. They are cone shaped and turn from green to black as they become fertile. Cut the spore heads at the soil line.
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Cut horsetail reed for use in arrangements any time of year. Use a pair of pruning shears and cut each stalk at the soil line.
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Discard all trimmings on a fire or in a plant refuse bin. Never throw horsetail reed cuttings into a wild spot or somewhere in the garden. Horsetail reed will quickly spread and take over other plants, pastures and lawn areas.
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