Winter Care for Perennials

What should I do with my perennials for the winter? Some people tell me to cut them down while others say to leave them standing.

Cut back and dispose of any diseased or insect infested leaves. Healthy plants can be left standing for winter. I like to see the framework of the plants and seed heads peeking through the snow as well as the birds they attract to my landscape. Others do not. Leave borderline hardy plants stand for the winter. The intact stems improve survival while capturing snow around their base to serve as a winter mulch. Prune all your plants back in late winter or early spring before growth begins. By then you will be anxious to work in the garden and tired of the winter interest. Cut back perennials in the fall if voles have damaged hostas, Siberian iris and other perennials in past winters.