Deadheading is the horticultural practice of removing spent flowers from ornamental plants.
Deadheading is a widespread form of pruning,[1] since fading flowers are not as appealing and direct a lot of energy into seed development if pollinated.
[2] The goal of deadheading is thus to preserve the attractiveness of the plants in beds, borders, containers and hanging baskets, as well as to encourage further blooming.
Deadheading is undesirable if the plant's seed is enjoyed by birds, as is the case with many species from the family Asteraceae.
Likewise, if the plant bears attractive seeds or fruits, deadheading is normally avoided.