Question
Hi! I started a bit on the early side for planting my geraniums and since the weather in RI is unpredictable, it got a bit cold for the season. The buds along the edge of the petals started to turn brown, but all the leaves look ok. If it's frostbite, can they recover? -and should I cut the buds/stems off? Can you please tell me how to take care of the them? Thank you for your time!
Sincerely, Susan

Answer
The frostbite will set them back 1-2 weeks, but they should be just fine. I always recommend waiting until Memorial Day to plant sensitive vegetables and annuals. Geraniums are one of the more hardy annuals, and can even sometime be overwintered in milder climates, so they will definitely recover. The best thing to do is nothing at this point. Once you see new growth, apply a diluted solution of a fertilizer high in phosphorus. Other than that, only water when needed. They should flower well into late October.

Good luck, and please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Regards,

Mike