Which statement best describes pruning spent flower clusters on a butterfly bush?

Which statement best describes pruning spent flower clusters on a butterfly bush?

• A. It promotes seed production.
• B. It removes spent blooms and encourages new growth.
• C. It darkens foliage.
• D. It stunts the plant.

Answer: (B)

Deadheading spent flower clusters on a butterfly bush prompts the plant to put energy into producing new growth and more blooms. Since butterfly bush flowers on new growth, removing the faded blossoms signals the plant to generate fresh shoots and new flower buds rather than letting the spent blooms go to seed. The payoff is a longer, continuous display and a tidier plant. It won’t darken the foliage or stunt the plant; instead, this practice supports ongoing vigor and flowering.

Deadheading spent flower clusters on a butterfly bush prompts the plant to put energy into producing new growth and more blooms. Since butterfly bush flowers on new growth, removing the faded blossoms signals the plant to generate fresh shoots and new flower buds rather than letting the spent blooms go to seed. The payoff is a longer, continuous display and a tidier plant. It won’t darken the foliage or stunt the plant; instead, this practice supports ongoing vigor and flowering.