It may not seem like it, but spring is just around the corner. And while we have been snowed in recently, one of the busiest and most enjoyable times for gardeners begins next week. Here are some spring garden tips to help turn your thoughts to warmer days. â¢Monkey grass (Liriope) needs to be cut back each year. Old growth is prone to the fungus anthracnose, which can leave unsightly dead spots on the leaves. Liriope can be cut back to 1 or 2 inches tall using scissors, hedge shears, string trimmers or even a lawn mower. The key is to avoid scalping the ground, which will destroy the plants growing point.