As the weather warms we will start to see new growth emerge from our ornamental grasses and find new sprouts from the base of herbaceous perennials.  If you have not done so already, take advantage of this week’s warm weather to cut back ornamental grasses and remove dead stems from herbaceous perennials before new growth emerges.  Try tying up the stalks with string to make the job easier.  A hand shears or pruner will be the best tool for the job.  Cut back small grasses to about 2 to 3 inches from the ground; for larger grasses cut 6 to 8 inches above ground level.  Dead stems of herbaceous perennials can be cut to ground level, just make sure you are not removing any viable buds.  Taking time to clean up dead material will result in more attractive and fuller plants as new growth emerges.

The dead stems among the emerging sedum leaves will quickly be hidden by new foliage.