How to Care for Black Eyed Susan Perennials in Fall

Overview

Perennial black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia fulgida) asks little of you once established. It cheerfully endures neglect while surviving quite nicely on whatever nature throws at it. These jaunty, daisy-like perennials can even withstand brutal winters up into the North American Great Lakes region. With just a little attention in the fall, your Susans will return to you for many springs to come.

Step 1

Cut black-eyed Susans freely for arrangements from late July into the fall. Don't remove the spent flowers or any foliage following the last bloom flush of the season. The seeds are an excellent food source for birds during the winter.

Step 2

Cut back black-eyed Susans in late fall when foliage has browned and the plants have gone completely dormant around mid-October. Leave stems about 3 to 4 inches taller than the basal leaves. This will help to trap snow during the winter, keeping the plants warm enough to survive.

Step 3

Divide large established plants every three or four years.

Step 4

Mulch black-eyed Susans well with several inches of dead leaves.

Step 5

Cut back and destroy any diseased plants in your garden. Don't add the vegetation to your compost heap.