Q.I Have A Large Swath Of Vinca Minor. In SE Minnesota We Had Very Little Snow This Past Winter, But It Got Quite Cold. Normally The
vinca stays green all winter under the snowcover. But without the snow & with the cold it’s now all brown. What should I do to r evive it? There are a few green leaves scattered about. Should I cut it back or cut off all the brown leaves?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Yes, it is probably caused by lack of cover through the winter.This can cause desiccation, leading to the browning you've observed. To help your vinca recover, wait until consistent spring temperatures return, then gently rake away any debris and trim back the dead foliage to about 1–2 inches above the ground. This encourages new growth from the plant's underground stems. Ensure the area is well-watered during dry spells to support recovery. For future winters, applying a 3–4 inch layer of mulch in late autumn can help protect your vinca from similar damage by insulating against cold and wind .
