It may be tempting to cut back the whole flower garden in the fall, but it can be helpful to leave some perennials standing throughout the winter. The seeds of Echinacea and Rudbeckia will attract and feed the birds and some plants seem to fare much better with the protection of their foliage.

However, there are some perennials that don’t handle winter weather very well. They don’t remain attractive after frost and they have recurrent problems with pests and diseases, which will over winter in their fallen foliage and surface in the spring. These perennials are best cut down in the fall. If they are diseased, throw the foliage away, do not compost it.

Although we all live in specific zoned areas, no one can exactly pinpoint when frost and snow will come. Many gardens survive just fine with no attention at all in the fall. Consider this listing as a guideline. (there are always exceptions) You will learn what works and what does not for your garden. Having said this, it never hurts to take some time and tuck your garden in bed in the fall. The cooler weather in Autumn is also a magnificent time in the garden.

Here is a list of some Perennials that can benefit from a Fall Clean-up:

Anemone , Baptisia, Beebalm (Monarda), Blanket Flower (Gaillardia), Brunnera, Catmint (Nepeta), Columbine, Crocosmia (Crocosmia), Daylily (Hemerocallis), Clematis, Hollyhock Mallow, Iris, Ligularia, Marguerite Daisies, Meadow Rue, Painted Daisy, Penstemon, Peony, Perennial Sunflower, Phlox, Perennial Salvia, Veronica/Spike Speedwell and Yarrow. (to name a few)

It is also an important part of fall cleanup to apply mulch after pruning.

If you do decide to prune your perennials in the fall, take the opportunity to apply some mulch before winter. With the stems and foliage gone from your plants, you will have plenty of room and applying mulch will help your perennials conserve moisture going into the winter, and also helps protect the roots and crowns from cold damage.

As always we are here to help you with pruning and any other gardening questions you may have.

Happy Fall Gardening!