Deadheading is the practice of removing spent flowers to encourage the production of new blooms. This maintenance task is effective for geraniums, which are widely grown for their long-lasting, vibrant colors. The term “geranium” typically refers to two popular plant groups: the annual bedding plants (Pelargonium) and the hardy perennial types (Geranium species). Removing faded blossoms helps achieve a continuous display of color throughout the growing season.
Why Removing Spent Flowers Promotes Healthier Plants
The primary reason to remove spent flowers is to interrupt the plant’s natural reproductive cycle. Once a flower fades, the plant shifts energy and resources toward developing a seed pod, its biological goal for survival. Deadheading prevents this energy-intensive process from beginning, effectively redirecting the plant’s resources.
This redirection forces the plant to channel sugars, hormones, and nutrients into vegetative growth and the development of new flower buds. Eliminating seed formation signals the plant to attempt reproduction again, resulting in a fresh flush of blooms and extending the overall flowering period. Furthermore, removing decaying plant material improves air circulation, which helps minimize the risk of common fungal diseases like Botrytis (gray mold).
Techniques for Identifying and Removing Dead Blooms
A spent geranium bloom is identified by its faded color, wilted appearance, and tattered petals, often turning brown at the edges. For the common annual geranium (Pelargonium), which features flower clusters on long, leafless stalks, the entire stalk must be removed, not just the individual petals.
To correctly remove the stalk, trace it back to the main stem. At the connection point, there is typically a slight bulge or joint where the stem will snap off easily. Pinching or gently bending the stalk allows for a clean break, preventing a stub that could invite disease. For plants with thicker stems, a clean, sharp pair of snips or shears may be used to cut the stalk just above the nearest healthy leaf or lateral bud.
Deadheading Different Types of Geraniums
The deadheading approach varies depending on whether the plant is an annual or a perennial. Pelargonium species (bedding geraniums) require consistent deadheading throughout the summer to prevent seed set and promote continuous flowering. For these, the snapping technique at the base of the flower stalk is the most effective method.
Hardy perennial geraniums, often called Cranesbill, do not always require individual flower removal. While they benefit from light deadheading, these plants generally have a main flush of blooms followed by sparse flowering.
To encourage a second wave of foliage and potential rebloom, it is more effective to aggressively shear or cut back the entire plant by up to one-third after the first major flowering period finishes. This shearing encourages dense, healthy new growth and a tidier appearance for the rest of the season.