Guide to Deadheading Annuals and Perennials
If you're dreaming of a garden that bursts with flowers from spring through fall, there's one simple technique you can't skip: deadheading. It might sound ominous, but this easy bit of upkeep is a game-changer when it comes to getting the most out of your annuals and perennials.
Let’s dig into what deadheading really is, why it matters, and how you can make it a part of your regular gardening routine.
What Is Deadheading?
Deadheading means removing spent or faded flowers from a plant. You're essentially giving your plant a nudge to stop putting energy into seed production and instead focus on growing more flowers.
Think of it as a gentle reminder to your plants: “Keep blooming, please!”
Why Should You Deadhead?
There are several benefits to deadheading, especially if your goal is to have long-lasting, colorful blooms throughout the season:
- Encourages more flowers: Many plants will rebloom after deadheading, often with even more vigor.
- Prevents self-seeding: This helps you control where and how your plants spread.
- Improves plant appearance: Removing wilted or brown blooms keeps your garden looking tidy and fresh.
- Redirects energy: Instead of going to seed, the plant channels energy into root and leaf development—or better yet, more buds.
When to Deadhead Annuals and Perennials
Timing can vary a bit by plant, but here are some general guidelines:
- Annuals (like petunias, marigolds, zinnias): Deadhead regularly—every few days or at least once a week during peak bloom.
- Perennials (like coneflowers, daylilies, and salvia): Deadhead throughout the bloom period. For some, like salvia, you’ll see a second flush of flowers after cutting back spent spikes.
Pro tip: Some perennials, like black-eyed Susans and echinacea, have seed heads that birds love, so you might want to leave those in place toward the end of the season.
How to Deadhead: Pinch or Snip?
Both techniques work—what you choose depends on the plant and your tools:
Pinching
Use your fingers to pinch off soft-stemmed blooms just above a set of healthy leaves or leaf node. Great for:
- Petunias
- Impatiens
- Snapdragons
Snipping
For tougher stems or larger blooms, use clean, sharp garden shears or scissors. Cut just above a leaf node or lateral bud.
Perfect for:
- Coneflowers
- Shasta daisies
- Zinnias
- Coreopsis
Always clean your tools to prevent spreading disease between plants.
How Deadheading Helps Your Plants
When you deadhead, you're telling your plants to keep the show going. Here's how it makes a difference:
- Extended bloom time: Many plants will flower again or continue blooming longer.
- Stronger, healthier growth: Your plant isn't wasting energy on seeds, so roots and leaves get a boost.
- Better air circulation: Removing dead flowers helps keep the plant airy and reduces the risk of disease.
A Quick List of Plants That Benefit from Deadheading
Here are just a few garden favorites that really shine with regular deadheading:
- Annuals: Geraniums, marigolds, cosmos, petunias, zinnias, verbena
- Perennials: Salvia, coneflowers, bee balm, phlox, coreopsis, daylilies
Some plants are “self-cleaning,” like calibrachoa and impatiens—they drop their own blooms.
Deadheading is one of those small gardening tasks with big payoffs. It's quick, easy, and makes your time in the garden even more enjoyable. So next time you're walking through your flower beds, bring your snips—or just your fingertips—and encourage your plants to keep the blooms coming.
For even more gardening tips and plant care advice, check out the rest of our blog and visit our perennial and annual collections to keep your garden in bloom all season long.
