From Homes and Gardens · · 1m 50s
7 Plants to Never Prune in October
Don't cut back these plants until spring to protect wildlife and plants.
In brief
Don't cut back these plants until spring to protect wildlife and plants. Seven plants should not be pruned in October to protect wildlife and plant survival through winter. Originally reported by Homes and Gardens.
Why October Pruning Can Harm Plants
Cutting back the wrong plants in October can expose their crowns and roots to frost, potentially killing them.
Sedum: Protects Wildlife and Plant Crown
Sedum should not be pruned in October to protect its crown from harsh winter temperatures and late spring frosts.
Ornamental Grasses: Winter Shelter
Ornamental grasses should not be cut back in October to protect their crowns from freezing temperatures and snow.
Coneflowers: Bird and Pollinator Food
Coneflowers provide seed heads for birds and shelter for overwintering pollinators through their hollow stems.
Lilyturf: Winter Protection
Lilyturf should not be pruned in October to avoid damage from freezing temperatures and protect its crown.
Joe Pye Weed: Insect and Bird Support
Joe Pye weed provides seed heads and hollow stems for beneficial insects and insect-eating birds through winter.
Black-Eyed Susans: Winter Seed Source
Black-eyed susans provide seeds for birds and cover for plant crowns through their faded stems.
Hydrangeas: Avoid Fall Pruning
Hydrangeas should not be pruned in October to prevent removing next year's buds and protect tender growth.
When to Prune These Plants
Prune sedum, ornamental grasses, coneflowers, lilyturf, Joe Pye weed, black-eyed susans, and hydrangeas in early spring after new growth appears.
Why Leave Plants Alone in October
Leaving plants alone in October protects wildlife, plant crowns, and provides insulation from frost and cold weather.
What to Do in October
Check for damaged stems and remove diseased parts of plants to prevent overwintering fungal diseases.
Pruning Tools for Winter
Use bypass pruning shears to make clean cuts on plants without damaging their crowns.
The big picture
Seven plants should not be pruned in October to protect wildlife and plant survival through winter.
