Saving Geraniums from Fungal Decline: Yellow, Wilting Leaves in Hanging Baskets

Those beautiful geranium baskets turning yellow and wilting after just two weeks? It's a classic fungal issue triggered by cool, damp nights.

The Real Culprit: Botrytis and Root Rot

Geraniums hate wet foliage going into cool evenings. In spring, when nights are still chilly, moisture on leaves and stems invites Botrytis (gray mold) and root rot pathogens.

Immediate Action Plan

1. Remove all affected foliage: Cut back yellowed, wilted leaves and stems.
2. Apply fungicide: Spray with chlorothalonil (Daconil) or copper fungicide.
3. Keep crowns dry: Water at soil level only; avoid wetting leaves, especially after 3 PM.
4. Improve air flow: Space baskets apart; don't crowd them.

Prevention for Next Time

• Choose disease-resistant varieties.
• Use fresh, sterile potting mix each season.
• Wait until nights are consistently above 55°F before planting out.

Geraniums are tough—they'll often bounce back with this regimen. But if they don't recover in 2-3 weeks, replace them with more resilient annuals like petunias or calibrachoa.