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Too early to cut back perennials?

LatimerLatimer Posts: 1,068
in Plants
So with the weather brightening up, I’m eager to get back into the garden. 

I’d like to get a good mulch of manure onto the ground as early as I can this year but that means cutting back all the grasses and perennials. With the potential of frosts still around, am I taking a chance leaving crowns exposed? Most of the plants I’ll be cutting back are well established. 

Some of them I also plan on moving and dividing. I know that needs to be later in the year once things really warm up so I’m in two minds as to what to do. 

Thanks all. 
I’ve no idea what I’m doing. 

Posts

  • PlantmindedPlantminded Posts: 3,580
    I have cut back all my perennials and many deciduous grasses but won't divide any until March when the weather warms up. As long as your perennials and grasses are hardy and you live in a relatively mild area, they'll be fine if we have more frost, unless it's extreme and combined with cycles of wet!
    Wirral. Sandy, free draining soil.


  • JennyJJennyJ Posts: 10,576
    If they're well-established hardy varieties you can cut them back any time you like - they won't mind a bit. Anything that's borderline hardy might be best left a while.
    Doncaster, South Yorkshire. Soil type: sandy, well-drained
  • LatimerLatimer Posts: 1,068
    Thank you both!
    I’ve no idea what I’m doing. 
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