Question
To promote more flowering, is it helpful to remove the seed pod after the bloom?  Or just let nature take its course?

Answer
Hi Marty,
Thanx for your question.  Unless you are saving seeds, many plants benefit from having the flowers deadheaded before seeds are produced.  Production of seed requires an incredible amount of energy from the plant.  In the case of annuals, seed production is the plant's last major life effort.  After that, it dies.  But yes, in most cases, I would remove the seed pod to promote more flowering and healthier growth.  I hope this helps.
Tom