How to Cut Back Flower Bulbs

Overview

Flower bulbs are an essential part of any landscaping plan. They add color and substance to gardens at times when many perennial plants have either stopped blooming or have yet to bloom. The downside of flower bulbs has to do with the questions of what to do with the foliage after the bulbs have stopped blooming. Just like other perennial plants, flower bulbs use their foliage to produce energy (photosynthesis). Cutting back the foliage while it is still green will eventually kill the bulbs. Leave the foliage intact until it has turned brown.

Step 1

Use pruning shears or scissors to promptly remove faded flowers. Cut the flower stems as close to the ground as you can.

Step 2

Wait to remove foliage until it has turned brown.

Step 3

Use a lawnmower to mow down foliage in naturalized settings (like daffodils scattered throughout a lawn). Set the lawnmower to 2 inches high.

Step 4

Use pruning shears or scissors to cut back faded foliage in flower beds. Cut the foliage back to 1 to 2 inches high.