Although it is necessary to have somewhat drier conditions in late summer and fall to induce maturity in perennial garden plants, most perennials should not go into winter in extremely dry condition. A good watering around freeze-up time, after the plants begin to mature, will put the plants in better shape to survive the winter. Watering should be thorough.
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If you live in the south you probably won’t need a cold frame. In the north, a cold frame is desirable until you can get your plants well along before freezing weather.