Name: David Laderoute Zone 5B/6 - NW MO (Zone 5b) Ignoring Zones altogether
I would go ahead and cut back.
If the Aphids are really bad and there is no sign of eggs or cats, I spray with insecticidal soap. If the infestation is small, I simply smash em. Some peeps recommend spraying with hose. I have never had joy from this method and it does not kill them - but simply knocks them off.
