10 Flowering Perennials to Leave Standing Through Winter
About This Resource
Leaving certain flowering perennials standing through winter can provide ecological benefits and enhance garden aesthetics. The article discusses the advantages of maintaining these plants, such as providing food and shelter for wildlife, particularly birds and pollinators, during the colder months. It highlights specific perennials like Joe Pye weed, coneflower, Brazilian vervain, bee balm, asters, and goldenrod, detailing their ecological roles and ornamental value. These plants not only support local ecosystems but also add texture and visual interest to winter gardens. The practical takeaway is that gardeners can contribute to wildlife conservation and enjoy a more dynamic winter landscape by leaving select perennials intact during fall cleanup.
Key takeaways
What to know before you act on this, from the SteadScape editors.
- Leave Joe Pye weed standing through winter to provide food for finches and shelter for overwintering bees; it thrives in hardiness zones 3-9.
- Retain coneflower seed heads in your garden to attract goldfinches and other birds; this perennial grows well in full sun and hardiness zones 3-9.
- Keep Brazilian vervain upright during winter to feed small birds; it flourishes in hardiness zones 7-11 and adds structure to your garden.
- Allow bee balm to remain standing for its aromatic foliage and seed heads, which support birds and beneficial insects; it grows in hardiness zones 4-9.
- Asters should be left intact to sustain pollinators late in the season and provide winter food for birds; they do well in hardiness zones 3-8.
- Best for
- Gardeners with small to medium-sized gardens; plan to leave perennials standing in late fall.
- Pairs with
- Garden Planner for your zone and frost dates.
Source Information
Summary and key takeaways written by SteadScape. How we choose resources
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