How to Deadhead African Marigolds

African marigolds, also known as Aztec marigolds, are fast-growing and provide color all summer long if given the proper care. It is important to know the correct way to deadhead the blossoms to help the plant produce more flowers. Two varieties of the African marigold species exist -- one that has large flowers and another that is tall. The large-flowered plant grows up to 12 inches with primrose yellow to pumpkin-orange blooms 3 1/2 inches across. Tall African marigolds grow up to 3 feet tall and spread to 3 feet. They require staking or tying up with wires. The blooms are orange or yellow and are useful in cut flower arrangements.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Hold the stem of the African marigold with your nondominant hand.

   • 2

     Snap off the tall variety with your dominant hand by removing the spent bloom where the stem connects to the main stem, or just in front of where the new growth begins.

   • 3

     Remove the flower head of the large-flowered variety by grasping it underneath the flower base. Use the index finger and thumb of your dominant hand while holding the stem firmly with your other hand. Quickly snap the bloom off to the right or left.