Traditionally, autumn was a time for a thorough garden clean-up, with all perennials cut back to prepare for winter. However, modern gardening trends favor a less hands-on approach. Leaving some plants standing can add visual interest and provide crucial shelter for wildlife during the colder months.
This guide offers tips on deciding which perennials to cut back and which to leave standing, helping you create a garden that thrives throughout the year.
Which perennials to cut back in autumn
When deciding whether or not to cut back a perennial in autumn, observe its natural behavior. If it begins to die back on its own, it's generally safe to remove dead foliage and flower stems. However, there are exceptions where leaving them in place might be beneficial.
Here's a list of perennials that are typically cut back in autumn:
- Hardy geraniums
- Delphiniums
- Astrantia
- Leucanthemum
- Nepeta
- Hemerocallis (Daylilies)
- Asters
What not to cut back in autumn
Not all perennials require autumn pruning. Plants with striking seedheads, such as eryngiums and teasels, can be left standing to add visual interest throughout the winter. Additionally, some perennials, like delphiniums, have hollow stems that offer shelter for overwintering insects. It's advisable to leave a few of these plants untouched.
Ornamental grasses also benefit from being left standing during the winter. This not only adds visual appeal but also provides valuable habitat for wildlife.
Evergreen perennials like Kniphofia, bergenias, and heucheras require minimal maintenance in autumn. Simply remove any dead or unsightly foliage. Old hellebore leaves can be cut back in late autumn to showcase the winter flowers. Epimediums can be left untouched over winter and pruned in early spring, just before the delicate flowers emerge. This enhances the visibility of the flowers and encourages healthy new growth.
Penstemons should not be pruned in autumn. The current year's growth acts as a natural frost protector for the emerging buds. Allow them to remain intact over winter and cut them back in spring, just above the new growth.
How to cut back perennials
- Prune back faded flower stems to the base.
- Remove the dying leaves of herbaceous perennials, leaving any new growth intact.
- Cut back perennials using sharp secateurs, as close to the ground as possible to avoid leaving unsightly stumps.
- Dead plant material can be added to the compost bin, unless it's affected by diseases, in which case it should be burned.
Autumn is the perfect time to add perennials to your garden. Explore our diverse selection at our St Albans garden centre!
