did you know?

Petunias, native to the rocky slopes of South America, are in the same family as tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, and tobacco. New cultivars like those in the Trumpet series flower more heavily than the species, even under the low-light conditions of shorter days in fall and winter.

general maintenance:

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage rebloom.

pests/diseases:

Aphids may occur. In soils with poor drainage, foliage may turn yellow.

controls:

To control aphids, use insecticidal-soap spray, following package directions.

how to sow/plant:

Choose a sunny site. Plant after danger of frost has passed in well-drained, humus-rich, moist soil, in containers or in hanging baskets. (Space plants 9?12 inches apart in beds.) Seed may be sown 10?12 weeks before plants will be set out. Sow in flats, pressing lightly into soil, because seeds need light to germinate.

water and fertilize:

Monitor soil moisture all season. Feed regularly with a balanced water-soluble or slow-release fertilizer, following package directions.

garden hint:

Petunias are vigorous growers, and it's best to pinch stems regularly to encourage full, bushy blooms.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Disease Resistant

garden uses:

• Containers
• Flowerbed borders
• Ground Cover (trailing plants are ideal for hanging baskets)

other uses:

combine with:

verbena, licorice plant and blue sage