Deadheading: Rerouting Mother Nature

Much the same way that a house divided against itself cannot stand, failing to remove dead flowers from a plant causes it to divert energy into producing more flowers when it could be used for growth . By removing the dead blooms or inflorescences, the plant is free to harness its energy for growth and improved performance. In many instances, this will stimulate a second flowering period later in the summer. Bedding plants, roses, climbers and shrubs all need deadheading.

Deadheading is easy. Snap off any faded or dead flowers between the fingers and thumb, but make sure the stems are broken cleanly. If the stems are rigid or if there is the danger of damaging the plant as the dead flowers are removed, then use sharp pruners. A few annuals and biennials (e.g., poppies) do not produce more flowers after "deadheading." If the seeds or fruits form part of the attractiveness of the plant, forego deadheading.

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