Time To Trim Back Those Perennials
from Kimberly Whitlock
Autumn is here, and that means it’s time to prune back spring and summer blooming
perennials. Pruning not only improves the look of expired perennials, but it can also prevent
disease and help with a stronger regrowth next year.
Here in hardiness zone 7b, we have already started pruning back peonies, as they tend to get
powdery mildew this time of year. We are starting to prune back shade loving plants such as
hostas, ferns, and astilbe as needed as well as sun loving plants daylilies and iris. As autumn
progresses, we will be pruning back bee balm and catmint, among others.
Other perennials are good to leave throughout the winter as visual interest as well as food and
shelter for pollinators. These include coneflowers and black-eyed susans.
