Hardy geraniums are one of those perennial plants that could fall into either category. There is no harm in cutting it back in the fall, especially if there is any sign of disease.
With that being said, hardy geraniums do not need to be cut back in the fall. The leaves will die back during the winter, adding a mulch to the growing area. If you choose not to cut back in the fall, you will want to tidy up the plant in the spring once new growth emerges as hardy geraniums do tend to get leggy.
One thing you can also do to keep the plant tidy during the growing season is to cut it back after the plant flowers. Not only will it maintain a clean look, but it often will result in a second round of flowering later in the season.
Hi Elouise,
Hardy geraniums are one of those perennial plants that could fall into either category. There is no harm in cutting it back in the fall, especially if there is any sign of disease.
With that being said, hardy geraniums do not need to be cut back in the fall. The leaves will die back during the winter, adding a mulch to the growing area. If you choose not to cut back in the fall, you will want to tidy up the plant in the spring once new growth emerges as hardy geraniums do tend to get leggy.
One thing you can also do to keep the plant tidy during the growing season is to cut it back after the plant flowers. Not only will it maintain a clean look, but it often will result in a second round of flowering later in the season.