Reality: Many perennials, ornamental grasses, and seed-bearing flowers are better left standing until spring.

winter interest

Their stems and foliage help protect crowns from Colorado’s freeze-thaw cycles, provide winter texture, and offer seeds and shelter for birds and beneficial insects.

Do remove foliage affected by disease and cut back plants that are collapsing onto paths, but leave healthy coneflowers, sedums, ornamental grasses, and similar sturdy plants for spring cleanup.

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Keith Funk
Keith Funk is a longtime gardener, educator, and radio host known for making practical gardening advice simple and approachable. Through his writing and the Garden Wise Guy brand, he helps gardeners grow smarter, healthier landscapes by blending research, real-world experience, and a passion for myth-busting common garden myths. Full Bio