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 Host, The Garden Wise Show
Keith Funk has been a trusted voice in Colorado horticulture for more than three decades. He hosts The Garden Wise Show on Legends 810 AM / 95.3 FM, taking listener questions live every Saturday morning, and owns JK Communications, the show's production company. Off the air he has guided gardeners at Echter's and now at Nick's Garden Center, and writes Q&A features for Colorado Gardener.