Deadheading guide
How to deadhead cleft phlox
How to deadhead cleft phlox
Follow the spent bloom down to the first set of healthy leaves or a visible side bud, and cut just above it. Cutting only the petals off leaves the developing seedpod behind, which defeats the point.
The mistake to avoid
Snipping just the faded petals and leaving the swollen green seedpod below. The plant still thinks it has set seed, so cleft phlox slows down anyway.
More cleft phlox care
Deadheading cleft phlox — FAQ
Should I deadhead cleft phlox?
Deadheading cleft phlox genuinely pays off. Once a flower fades the plant starts pouring energy into setting seed, and removing it redirects that energy straight back into producing more buds. Keep on top of it through the season and you get a noticeably longer, heavier display; stop, and flowering tails off as the plant decides its job is done.
How do you deadhead cleft phlox?
Follow the spent bloom down to the first set of healthy leaves or a visible side bud, and cut just above it. Cutting only the petals off leaves the developing seedpod behind, which defeats the point.
How often should I deadhead cleft phlox?
Every few days to weekly through the flowering season — the more regularly, the better the repeat.
What is the most common deadheading mistake with cleft phlox?
Snipping just the faded petals and leaving the swollen green seedpod below. The plant still thinks it has set seed, so cleft phlox slows down anyway.