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finished flowering period

What you’re seeing

Blooms fade, petals drop, and the plant shifts energy to leaves/stems or seedpods. Flowering pauses even though foliage looks healthy.

What it is

A normal pause after a bloom cycle. Many ornamentals flower in waves or seasons; they can’t bloom continuously without rest or care adjustments.

Is action needed?

Often no urgent action. Gentle maintenance sets the stage for the next cycle.

How to confirm

  • Spent flowers present: Brown petals, dry calyces, or seedheads.
  • Healthy foliage: New leaves continue; no widespread yellowing or wilt.
  • Typical timing: Matches the plant’s usual bloom window (e.g., many winter bloomers rest in spring).

What to do

  1. Deadhead spent blooms to redirect energy (unless you want seeds/berries).
  2. Light: Provide bright, indirect light; some bloomers need a few hours of gentle direct sun.
  3. Nutrition: Resume a balanced, dilute fertilizer (e.g., 1/4–1/2 strength) during active growth.
  4. Water: Keep consistent—neither soggy nor bone-dry.
  5. Rest cues: Some species need shorter days/cooler nights to rebloom; research your plant’s typical triggers.
  6. Repot if root-bound or media is degraded; fresh mix supports the next flush.

Prevention tips

  • Track bloom cycles in a simple log; adjust light and feeding before the next flush.
  • Avoid heavy pruning right before bud formation.
  • Don’t over-fertilize during rest—excess salts can stress roots.
  • Bud blast from low humidity or missed watering causes buds to dry before opening.
  • Nutrient issues can reduce bloom count.

Images

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