When to Prune Lantana in Winter: Patience Pays Off

Lantana's winter appearance can be deceiving. Many varieties (especially 'New Gold') are marginally hardy north of Atlanta and often die back completely. The more cold-tolerant 'Miss Huff' usually survives but looks ragged in January.

Wait Until Spring to Prune

Resist the urge to cut back dead-looking stems in mid-winter. Early pruning exposes the crown to further cold damage. Instead, wait until March or even April when new growth emerges at the base. Then remove the dead wood. If no green shoots appear by April, the plant (likely 'New Gold') is a goner—compost it and replant.