Things such as my lantanas and salvia are looking really ratty about now. Is it okay to cut back the dead growth? How much of the base do you need to leave?
Annie
is it okay to cut back some of the dead growth on perennials
Lantana's don't come back until summer here so I cut them 4" or so. Just leaving enough to know where they are planted. My Salvia's on the other hand, I leave about 6-8" depending on the growth still on the plant. I am sure other's will come along and give you their suggestions too.
I do the same as Sheila, leave enough stem to know where they are, mulch and wait for spring.
I don't cut the Lantana back till new growth begins. It is ratty looking but many times leaves will grow on what appears to be the dead branches so it gives the shrub a jump on growth and size. Also, the Lantana branches are hollow. I have had some die that I pruned back. Was told moisture gets in the hollow cores and rots the roots. pod
(Was told moisture gets in the hollow cores and rots the roots. pod)
Yes, I have heard that about the salvias, too. Unfortunately, I didn't hear it in time and this fall I wacked a bunch of them to about 10". It remains to be seen what I will have this spring.
BTW, I am a wildlife rehabilitator and I received 4 baby squirrels which always means that spring is just around the corner!
Annie
Baby squirrels are probably a betterprognosticator of spring than PAUXTAUNEY PHIL. Ground hog's day is my favorite because no one expects a card, a call or a gift......
We have rehabbed many a baby squirrel over the years. I have noticed there is actually no time of year that there are not baby squirrels. More in the spring of course. They are a fascinating animal even tho still a tree rodent.
CHOOD ~ LOL on Groundhog day... but don't say it too loud or the greeting card people will hear you! 8 ))
This is my first year with a few different Salvias so I have no experience there. Was told to leave them on till new growth too. At 10 inches, yours ought to be all right. We will know more in a few months I guess.