It can be tricky to tell the difference between a spent dahlia flower and a new bud, but learning to identify them is key to successful deadheading, which encourages more blooms. Here’s how to distinguish between the two:

New Bud: A new dahlia bud is typically a rounded, tightly-closed ball. The outer leaves, known as bracts, are usually a vibrant, uniform green. The bud feels firm and solid to the touch. It may have a smooth, almost waxy appearance and is often pointing upwards, full of potential. The size will vary depending on the dahlia variety, but it will always be a compact, self-contained shape.

Spent Flower: A spent dahlia flower looks and feels very different. Instead of being a firm, compact ball, it will be loose and squishy. The petals will have faded in colour, shriveled, and may have started to fall off. The once vibrant, firm petals will be limp and droopy. The center of the flower will often darken and may appear slightly fuzzy or brown as it starts to dry out and go to seed. Crucially, the head of the spent flower will be limp and often hangs downwards, weighed down by the spent petals.