Astilbe

[seepnezorf1]

After the frost has brown the leaves, can they be cut back and if so...to how far above the soil level?

thanks

[Pam - gardengal]

Yes, right down to the ground but it is not necessary. I generally leave mine until early spring clean up. If you live in a cold climate, mulch over the crown.

pam - gardengal

[Tina Gibson]

I live in zone 3 and I don't even mulch mine. It is in a protected spot though but it is very hardy. Last yr I lost a lot of plants due to very deep freeze and very little snow, even the plants I diligently mulch - but the astilbe survived. Never cut it back either. Do remove flower heads for seed..