Nodding Thistle

The Spiny Plumeless Thistle (Carduus acanthoides) requires moist soil for optimal health and growth. While this species of thistle is fairly drought tolerant, it should be watered deeply and regularly to ensure that it can reach its full potential. As a drought tolerant plant, it should be watered only when the soil is fairly dry, as 1-2 inches should be allowed to dry before watering. During the summer months, the Spiny Plumeless Thistle should be watered every 7 to 10 days, and less frequently during the cooler months. When watering, it is important to water to the same depth with each application, which should be 8 to 10 inches. If possible, watering should be done in the morning so that the plants have all day to dry. During periods of heavy rainfall, supplemental watering should be avoided.

The Spiny Plumeless Thistle enjoys full sun, meaning it should be exposed to the direct rays of the sun for at least 6 to 8 hours per day. In cooler climates such as areas of the United States, this should occur during the late morning and the afternoon. In warmer climates, the plant should be exposed to direct sunlight during the middle of the day. During the winter, the amount of sunlight for the Spiny Plumeless Thistle should be limited to 2 to 4 hours per day, as too much exposure can be damaging.

For the Spiny Plumeless Thistle (Carduus acanthoides), pruning should be done in early spring. This helps the plant to properly grow and prevents flowering. The best way to trim this plant is to remove any dead or damaged branches and old flower heads as well as any branches that are growing where they are not wanted. Pruning can be done with pruning shears, loppers, or a pruning saw. Be sure to sterilize the tools before using them. Thinning should also be done to remove crowded or weak growth in order to promote the overall health of the plant. To thin the plant, make the cut around 1/4 inch above a node and remove any suckers or shoots that are growing near the ground.