i need help, three perenials when do you cut them down , foxgloves, hollyhocks, and delphiniums,all three are flowering at present but are starting to fade would appreciate any advice thank you,,, ellise
Most perennials should be cut back after flowering - timing is up to you really dependant of the appearance of the plant usually. If cut back soon after the flower dies back, many including delphinium can flower again, I doubt that the other two would do so as they behave generally as Biennials, you can let them go to seed if you choose to let them - you can then harvest the seed for future planting....
As barnaby says, you can harvest the seed for future use, or if you want to go for the 'informal' style of garden, just wait until the Foxglove and Hollyhock seed heads have matured (when they turn brown), then simply cut off the whole flower stem and shake or scatter the seeds around the garden. You will be amazed how many new seedlings have appeared by next spring and by scattering the seed and letting grow where it will, you'll get a more 'natural' effect.
