Spring Cleanup for a Hummingbird Garden in Iowa

Post-Winter Maintenance

For a new hummingbird garden with Wild Romance Aster, Monarda, Keys of Heaven, White Dragonflower, Red Penstemon, Black Knight Butterfly Bush:

Early Spring Tasks

1. Remove all dead top growth.
2. Side-dress with composted manure (cow/horse).
3. Ensure 1" water weekly (rain + irrigation).
4. Divide crowded clumps every 3 years.

Plant-Specific Notes

• Butterfly bush: Prune hard to 12–18" in early spring.
• Penstemon: Cut back to basal foliage.
• Monarda: Thin stems for air circulation (prevents mildew).

No fall cleanup needed—leaving stems over winter protects crowns and provides insect habitat.