Which Plants to Prune in Late Fall

Roses

Like the hydrangeas that bloom on new growth, the popular Knock Out Roses also require pruning in the fall. If you have roses growing in your yard, cut them back at least by a third to prevent severe damage. Proper pruning is vital for roses because it helps them grow and bloom the following season. Pruning roses doesn’t require specialized equipment, but if you don’t have pruning shears, loppers, or secateurs, hire tree service providers to handle maintenance.

Perennials

If you have perennial plants in your yard, pruning in the fall provides the best opportunity to remove old foliage. Once these plants are past their blooming time, cut the old stems back to the base but leave new leaves intact. Some perennials that might benefit from fall pruning include astilbe, phlox, daylilies, hostas, and yarrow. Leaving some perennials with seed heads to feed the birds when temperatures drop is advisable. Suitable perennials for winter bird feeding include coneflowers and black-eyed Susans. 

Grasses

Homeowners often focus on yard care in the fall, cutting back grasses for a more manicured landscape. Arborists recommend leaving grass through winter and cutting back in the spring to improve curb appeal. This ensures the tufts and textures look great in your yard when flowers don’t bloom, and trees lose their leaves. For those who lead busy lives or don’t have time to tackle yard care, hire a tree care company to provide regular maintenance and ensure your landscape is pristine.

Suckers

Lastly, plants that shoot around the trees' base should be removed at the end of fall. The last thing you want is one plant forming a colony and compromising the quality of your greenery. Some of the suckers to look out for include kerria, sumac, witch hazel, and saucer magnolia. If you don’t remove suckers early, you risk competition for essential nutrients and water, as well as premature tree removal in case of severe damage.