For Perennial flowers, should I leave the plants alone or do I cut them down to dirt level?

Question

Would like the perennial flowers to come back next year.

Some flowers are in a planter box (can be put in a shed) some are in the ground.

Answer 1

If the foliage is brown/yellow/dead, go ahead and cut it down.  If it is green, leave it and just cut back the dead flowers.  When the foliage is green, it is still alive and able to make and store energy for next year.

Answer 2

You can remove the flower heads,just leave the foliage alone.

Answer 3

sorry, but the answer is 'it depends'.  some plants come back from 'old' wood (some hibiscus, salvia, hydrangea).  others die back to the ground, and start from the root again (a different type of hibiscus).  check out your specific plants online to see what is advised.  good luck!