Kind of a dumb/n00b question but what exactly is the purpose to dead-heading? Is it mostly done to simply re-distribute the plants energy to buds that haven�t yet bloomed/blossomed yet? Or is more for aesthetic reasons (meaning buds will still open whether deadheaded or not)?

Specifically-speaking, my question mostly pertains to my Martha Washington/Regal geraniums. Thanks - hope this makes sense!

(I may cross-post this in another forum since not sure if this is the right place to ask).