I'm in 7a and started these guys as plugs this spring. They seem to be doing great. They didn't flower this year, as expected, and I'm wondering if these need to be cut back at all. If so, wait until the leaves die?

Thanks!

No need to cut them back. Just enjoy!

I only trim mine back after the spring bloom. Yours look great for a first year. If you trim back after blooming, you will have fresh leaves for the summer.

Early spring, before bloom, I trim or pinch all dead leaves. During bloom time, I pinch out faded flower stems.... leave a few if you are looking for them to reseed.