Cutting back perennials
- To: perennials@mallorn.com
- Subject: Cutting back perennials
- From: A* L*
- Date: Mon, 05 Oct 1998 07:36:34 -0700
Hi, Pottsey & all,
Whether to cut back in Fall or Spring is generally a matter of personal
preference. I cut back in Fall because Spring is so erratic here that I
don't want to spend time then cutting back, as so much else needs to be
done and chores get delayed because of the weather. The advantages to
cutting back/cleaning up in Fall include:
-- Disposing of diseased or bug-infested foliage that you may not even
be aware of. Getting this out of the garden reduces the chances of the
pests returning next year; Providing fewer places for other pests
(mice, etc.) to hide and nest over winter; Easier to mulch once plants
are cut down; Fewer chores to worry about in Spring; A clean palette
that really shows off the early spring bulb and perennial growth early.
Of course, there are disadvantages, including bare beds during the
winter (so I leave grasses, sedums, and a few others standing to catch
the snow) and fewer places for good guys such as birds to find shelter
and food.
Experiment to find which method you prefer! I love the routine of fall
cleanup, emptying and cleaning the pots, organizing the storage areas,
and looking forward to a new gardening year. I highly recommend the
book
"The Garden in Autumn" by Allen Lacy (1990). Gorgeous pics, great text.
Anne - Chicago
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