Avoid the most common pruning mistakes by not cutting these shrubs and perennials back in fall.
However, pruning plants at the wrong time of the year can actually inhibit flowering and cause other issues.
The following plants should never be pruned in autumn.
Credit:Bob Stefko
Lilacs
Pruning is an essential task if you keeplilac shrubs(Syringaspp.)
Coneflower
Coneflower plants(Echinaceaspp.)
Globe Thistle
Like coneflowers,globe thistle(Echinops ritro) plants produce seed-filled flower heads.
Credit: Jacob Fox
However, this perennial plant can be susceptible to winter damage, especially if pruned late in the season.
Black-eyed Susan
Black-eyed Susan(Rudbeckiaspp.)
The cold hardy hydrangea varieties that bloom on new wood can be successfully pruned in autumn.
Credit: Todd Dacquisto
Mock Orange
Mock oranges(Philadelphusspp.)
In fact, some gardeners allow these plants to grow a bit wild.
In fall, leaving your milkweed standingprovides shelter for pollinatorsthat make nests in hollow stems.
Credit: Bob Stefko
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Credit: Perry L. Struse
Credit: Ralph Anderson
Credit: Bill Stites
Credit: Janet Mesic-Mackie
Credit:Charles Mann
