Are you in the City of Annapolis or in one of the outlying areas? Annapolis being densely-populated and on the water with some substantial elevation changes, the actual zone will vary from place to place. Minimally zone 7a, but some sheltered sunny spots near the water might be 8a.

I don't know about the butterfly bush, sorry.

Cut the butterfly bush back in March

Welcome!!

Most often we don't get frosts until late October, sometimes as late as early November. The weather has been changing a bit over the last couple of years though.

All of the things that bloom on new growth get pruned in the late winter/early spring time-period (usually March as stated by Anne). This would be your crape myrtle, pee gee hydrangea, butterfly bush, etc.

Sometimes, you can find Mid-Atlantic or even Maryland specific gardening books that could also help.

Also, here are some web-sites that you might find useful:

Univ. of MD Home & Garden Info (veggie planting times, chores, etc.)
http://www.hgic.umd.edu/

A couple of resources regarding natives and caring for the bay:
http://www.mdflora.org/events/plantsales.html
http://www.fws.gov/chesapeakebay/bayscapes.htm
http://www.alliancechesbay.org/pubs.cfm

Hope that helps! Happy Gardening!

Jen

I bought a mid-atlantic gardening book at BJs that you're welcome to borrow...

Also, if there isn't a garden club in Annapolis (there probably is but I don't live there so haven't looked into it), there is one for Bowie/Crofton that's worth looking into.

Hope this is of some help..

Lynne