The Simplest Thing You Can Do Right Now for Healthier Perennials Next Spring

Key Takeaways

A simple fall cleanup around perennials—clearing leaves and debris—helps prevent pests and disease for healthier spring growth.

Though plants look dormant, their roots stay active, so weekly watering until the ground freezes is essential.

Pruning and mulching before winter protect plants from frost, disease, and moisture loss, especially for new perennials.

Come autumn, trees put on a spectacular show, and there are even some perennials that bloom well into winter. However, many plants go into hibernation mode, waiting until temperatures rise before displaying green leaves and pretty blossoms. While it may be easy to just walk away until then, there’s a surprisingly simple (and very important!) late-fall step you should take to help your perennials thrive in the comin