As a gardening and landscaping expert, I often get asked about the best time to cut back ornamental grasses for winter. While some people prefer to cut them back in the fall to avoid the “floppy” look throughout the winter, it is actually beneficial to leave the foliage intact.
One important reason to leave the grasses standing is that the foliage helps to insulate the crown of the plant. The crown is the area where the leaves emerge from the roots, and it is vulnerable to cold temperatures. By leaving the foliage in place, you are providing an extra layer of protection for the crown, helping to prevent freeze damage.
Another benefit of leaving the grasses standing is that they can provide winter interest in the garden. Many ornamental grasses have beautiful seed heads that can add texture and visual appeal to the landscape during the winter months. These seed heads can also provide food and shelter for birds and other wildlife.
In my own garden, I have found that leaving the grasses standing through the winter adds a sense of movement and life to an otherwise dormant landscape. The way the grasses sway and rustle in the wind can be quite mesmerizing, and it brings a sense of tranquility to the garden.
However, I do understand that some people may not appreciate the look of the grasses in the winter. If this is the case, you can wait until late winter or very early spring to cut them down. By this time, the new growth will be starting to emerge, and you can trim the old foliage back without harming the plant.
When it comes to actually cutting back the grasses, it is important to use the right tools and techniques. I recommend using sharp pruners or hedge shears to make clean cuts. Avoid cutting the grasses too short, as this can damage the crown and lead to poor growth in the spring. Instead, leave about 6-8 inches of foliage above the ground.
While some people may prefer to cut back ornamental grasses for winter, it is actually beneficial to leave the foliage intact. The foliage helps to insulate the crown of the plant and provides winter interest in the garden. However, if you don’t like the look of the grasses in the winter, you can wait until late winter or early spring to cut them down. Just be sure to use the right tools and techniques to avoid damaging the plant.
