Cory Lechner wrote:

We have a great deal of perennials throughout our property (Regina,
Saskatchewan).

1) Should we cut off the season's growth to the ground before winter comes?

2) Does the answer to #1 vary with species of perennial?

3) Does leaving the top on promote fungus growth?

Cory
Regina. Saskatchewan, Canada

There is really no right or wrong answer to this question - it depends on your
climate and preference. Many folks do a routine clean-up of their garden each
fall to ready it for winter that includes cutting back all herbaceous
perennials. Others leave selected plants as is over winter, either because they
offer late season attraction (sedum seedheads look great dusted with frost or
snow) or because they offer fodder to local wildlife. If you live in a hard
winter climate (I'm pretty sure Saskatchewan would qualify :-)), there is the
likelihood that leaving foliage intact over the winter will offer additional
winter protection to the root crown. This can lead to hiding places for
overwintering insects and diseases - depends on whether or not they are a big
problem in your area. You can always cut back and then mulch to get the same or
even superior winter protection.

pam - gardengal