Fall Cutback for Hostas and Peonies in Central Ohio: Timing and Technique

Peonies

Cut to 2 inches above ground now (late fall). Remove all foliage — reduces botrytis overwintering.

Leave foliage until spring. It acts as natural mulch, protecting crowns from freeze-thaw. Clean up in April.

Peonies are herbaceous with eyes at soil level — clean cut prevents disease. Hostas have crown buds that benefit from leaf insulation.

When in doubt, leave it. Spring cleanup is safer and easier.

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