Wait until a flower has faded, wilted, or started to dry out
Follow the stem down from the spent bloom to the first set of healthy leaves or a side bud
Use clean, sharp scissors, pruners, or pinch with your fingers
Cut or pinch the stem just above a leaf node or side shoot
Remove the entire spent flower head, including the seed base
Deadhead regularly to encourage more blooms
Check plants every few days during peak flowering
Remove any damaged, brown, or diseased flowers at the same time
Dispose of spent blooms if you do not want self-seeding
Water and fertilize lightly after deadheading if needed
