The secret to good deadheading is to make it as invisible as possible. For example, cut off spent blooms and stalks all the way back to the leaf joint.
Water and weed as needed. To conserve water and prevent leaf burn, don’t water in the heat of the day.
When you mow, remove only 1/3 of the total grass height. Keep the grass 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches tall. The taller grass shades the soil, keeping grass roots cool, and prevents weed seeds from sprouting.
Information provided by the University of Minnesota Extension Service.
