Can deadheading revive a leggy plant?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.*Deadheading* reinvigorates untidy, tall plants by shifting energy expenditure into lateral growth. My neighbor's tall and spindly petunias became lush mounds of color after she cut back the top third. Removing the top of the plants encourages the dormant buds at each leaf node to spring into action. In essence, it is like a reset button for a plant.
Assess Growth Patterns
- Identify stretched stems with sparse foliage
- Prioritize cuts above outward-facing leaf nodes
- Remove no more than 30% of plant height initially
Post-Deadheading Care
- Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) after trimming
- Water deeply to reduce transplant shock
- Provide partial shade for 48 hours if heat-stressed
Fertilizing promotes recovery. Following the deadheading of my leggy geraniums, I applied liquid fish emulsion at half-strength. The nitrogen boost will green up pale leaves within a few days. Just be careful with any fertilizers that are higher in P (phosphorus) because they will favor flowering over foliage, which defeats the purpose of trying to densify growth.
Light conditions are very important. Leggy coleus in the shade still stays compact, after deadheading, but full sun plants need to be acclimatized gradually. During the week, I take the plants I have revived and move them further toward an area with more light. Sudden intensity often burns the tender new growth. You should be observing daily, adjustments save setbacks.
Read the full article: How to Deadhead Flowers for Continuous Blooms
