Is there any advantage or disadvantage in cutting the stems in the fall? I have normally left them as markers for the spring. Thx

Allow the stem to dry completely. Whether you cut it or not after that doesn't matter. Just don't cut it while it's green.

Thanks Luka!

I cut mine a few inches above the ground, leaving the lower part as a marker. Usually the Asiatic lily stems self remove early on on their own. The trumpet and Orienpets like to really stick to the bulb. Eventually they will become easy to pull out when no longer needed as a marker. Then I pat a bit of soil over the hole.

Thanks Connie!

Except for some like the OTs that can stay green through the first snowfalls here in Minnesota, I end up pulling most of my stems. I mulch heavily with leaves in the winter so leaving any part of the stem for marking is useless. I do mark mine with labels, though. Each gets a stick I cut from arborvitae or red cedars (resistant to rot) pushed in to an inch or so above ground level. Labels, made from mini blinds, get stuck right at the stick. That way, I can always feel around in the mulch or dirt for the stick, and know exactly where to look for the label.

But as far as the lily's health is concerned, cutting a dead stem makes no difference.

Thanks Rick!

I always figure however you do it, getting rid of old debris like lily stalks, will decrease your chance of harboring unwanted disease or eggs that could over winter. Good cleanup for winter is a good idea.

Thanks Tracey!