Deadheading -

Question: What is meant by the term deadheading? Is it appropriate for all flowering plants? What is the proper technique?

Answer: Deadheading is the removal of faded flowers. There are two reasons to do this. One is simply appearance. Spent flowers are not attractive, whether clinging to plants or cluttering up the garden or pot bed. All plants, including annuals, perennials, and most shrubs, benefit from this practice, and if the refuse is composted, the whole garden is better for it. Another important reason to deadhead is to prevent plants from going to seed. Most plants, especially annuals, form seed heads in order to reproduce themselves. If left to their own devices, they would self-sow, but interrupting this process encourages the plant to produce more flowers and gain in vigor. Early season flowers, such as pansies, can be extended into mid-summer with proper attention. When deadheading annuals, make sure that you remove the seed pod with the spent flower, and your plants will respond beautifully.