When to prune lantana, perennial salvias and other woody Southern perennials
Right after the last frost, as new growth starts. Old stems shelter the crown through winter; cut back once frost danger passes.
| Type | perennial |
|---|---|
| Blooms on | new wood |
| Bloom season | summer-fall |
| When to prune | Right after the last frost, as new growth starts |
| Stop | No heavy pruning in the 6–8 weeks before your first fall frost |
Avoid
Fall cutting back.
Example dates
| Place | Dates |
|---|---|
| Austin, TX (78701) | Mar 10–24 |
| Atlanta, GA (30303) | Mar 24–Apr 7 |
| St. Louis, MO (63101) | Apr 1–15 |
| Chicago, IL (60614) | Apr 10–24 |
| Denver, CO (80202) | Apr 30–May 14 |
| Seattle, WA (98101) | Mar 13–27 |
Every ZIP page has its own dates. Find your ZIP.
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Sources
- University of Georgia Extension: B961: Pruning Ornamental Plants in the Landscape
- Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC: Pruning Shrubs
Summarized in our own words from public extension publications.
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