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:

Susceptible to aphids. In soils with poor drainage, foliage may turn yellow.

controls:

To control aphids, use insecticidal-soap spray according to label 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, hanging baskets, or beds. (Space plants 9?12 inches apart in beds.) Seeds may be sown indoors 10?12 weeks before planting-out date: Sow in flats, pressing seeds into soil lightly, 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 plants.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Disease Resistant

garden uses:

• Containers
• Flowerbed borders

other uses:

combine with:

verbena, licorice plant blue sage