Do you need to cut back the foliage of columbine plants before winter or leave it?

Question

I have deadheaded the flowers but the foliage is beginning to turn brown and die. I am just not sure if I need to cut it for the winter or just leave it alone.

Answer 1

Columbine is considered a short-lived perennial, so many people allow the flowers to go to seed, thus reseeding itself each year. After the foliage begins to turn brown, you can cut it off and compost it (or throw it away,) or you can leave it in the garden to decompose back into the soil. This article has more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/columbine/columbine-flower.htm