Autumn in Northern Virginia is nothing short of splendid. There’s a chill in the air, and the bugs that have been annoying us all summer seem to disappear. If you’re a gardener or flower lover, it’s also time to think about caring for your landscape to ensure beautiful and bountiful spring growth. The first killing frost in our region usually hits around mid-October. Which makes us wonder if it’s time to start cutting back our perennials.
Deadheading our perennials can make your spring garden healthier. But before you grab those pruners, let’s take a step back. Some perennials benefit from cutting back. It helps prevent disease and root out pests. However, some plant species thrive when left alone. Their fall foliage protects their root crowns (the base of the plant) while providing food for birds and other pollinators.
What’s So Great About Perennials?
Perennials are plants that return year after year, often with minimal maintenance. Instead of dying in the winter, they undergo a period of dormancy, preparing to bloom again in spring or summer. We love perennials because they’re hardy and beautiful, adding splashes of color well into the fall and even during the winter.
Should I Cut Back My Perennials In Fall Or Leave Them Alone?
The answer to this yearly question depends on the plant in question. Some plants thrive when trimmed or deadheaded, while others are healthiest when left untouched through fall and winter.
Generally, we want to cut back plants that are prone to pests or disease. For example, phlox and bee balm are susceptible to powdery mildew, while peonies are prone to fungal infections. Other species that can be cut down in the fall include daylilies, sunflowers, salvia, bearded iris and yarrow. Hosta can also benefit from pruning to encourage new growth in the spring. In general, it’s best to wait for several hard frosts to start deadheading, but if you see flowers dying, you can remove them to prevent pests and disease.
Other perennials thrive when we allow them to be dormant during the fall and winter. They bring color, texture, and movement to your garden, and seedheads can look beautiful even when dormant, while feeding birds and pollinators. These plants often have foliage that protects their root crowns during the winter.
However, we always want to cut back and remove diseased or infested plants.
Here are some of the most successful perennials in our region:
- Creeping phlox offers a beautiful carpet of flowers that’s deer-resistant and easy to maintain.
- Black-eyed Susans and purple coneflowers are native plants that support pollinators while adding a sweet touch to your garden.
- Butterfly bush is another pollinator-friendly perennial that’s super easy to care for. It’s pest and drought-resistant.
- Russian sage is known for its lovely purple flowers, which resemble those of lavender. It’s incredibly hardy and pollinator-friendly.
How Should I Cut Back My Perennials?
After a few hard frosts, you can cut back your perennial flower stems near the base. Check for signs of new growth before pruning to avoid damaging new leaves that are essential for spring. You want to leave the stalks long enough for them to be visible in the spring. Use pruners that provide a clean cut and avoid crushing the stems. You can add a light layer of mulch for extra protection and temperature regulation over the winter.
When Should I Cut Back My Perennials?
The general rule of thumb is to start cutting after the first hard frost. In Northern Virginia, this typically occurs in mid-October. Now is the perfect time to start managing your fall garden for maximum spring growth. You can also begin to remove plants when you see them dying or fading, especially if you see signs of pests or disease.
As you can see, there’s really no “one size fits all” when it comes to pruning perennials—it’s trickier than it looks. Some plants love a good trim, while others do better if you leave them be. Since you’ve put time and money into your garden and want those perennials to come back strong each year, it’s worth doing it right. Not sure what needs cutting and what doesn’t? The pros at Epling Landscape and Lawn Service can help keep your plants healthy and looking great. Our team can also assist with maintenance to promote vibrant spring growth. Let’s talk today and make a plan for a healthy and thriving landscape that’s a feast for the eyes and the soul.