Question
When/how do you reccomend deadheading these flowers? We've had a good crop every year for six years,but don't get many repeat blooms. We're in the notheast heights of Albuquerque and I use compost every year. how far do we trim back from the bloom? Flowers face southeast in full sun. Muchas Gracias!
Ruth

Answer
Hello Ruth

Once the flower has faded you should follow the stem down either to another bud or down to the ground and snip it off with secatuers.  It is usual to have one really stunning flush of flowers initially, then sporadic flowering for the rest of the growing season.

Dead heading keeps the stand of flowers looking neat and, more importantly, allows the plants to put all their energy into building up the roots for next year's display, rather than making seeds!

Gill