Potted Geranium Buds Have Holes And Flowers Are Deformed And Sparse

Question From: Larkspur, California, United States
Q: My potted geraniums on my deck were gorgeous. Now the buds appear to have holes in them and flowers are deformed and sparse. I've applied sprays of what the nurseryman said was for aphids, mites, caterpillars etc. and it's not helping them! What can I do???

A: Your geraniums are being eaten by bud worm. Begin by cutting off all the buds with holes in them and disposing them in a paper bag. The budworm adult lays eggs in the bud, so you must get rid of them. You can spray with a product called Bt which is organic and will not harm bees and beneficial insects. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy