How to Plant Petunias
Gardeners plant petunias for the blast of color in the landscape. Petunias are easy to grow and brighten up gardens that lack color and vitality. Annual replanting of petunias is required because they die at the end of the season. They develop, flower, and when the frost hits, they die. Although you can propagate petunias from seed, most gardeners prefer to purchase transplants. They are commonplace at garden centers. Read on to discover how to plant petunias plants.
Where to Plant Petunias
Before purchasing your petunias, you should decide where to locate the plants. Petunias are sun-loving annuals. They require a minimum of five hours of sunlight daily. Additional sunlight will cause them to produce more flowers.
Preparing the Soil for Petunias
Petunias are tough plants. Your primary consideration for the soil is that it drains properly. Petunias do not like to grow in stagnant water. You can plant in raised garden beds or planters if you have inadequately draining soil. Although petunias are not selective about their soil quality, they will enjoy the addition of organic matter to their soil. Working a two or three-inch layer of compost into the soil before planting will give your transplants a great beginning.
How to Plant Petunias
You should plant petunias on a cloudy day. Full sun will stress the plants and slow their early growth. As petunias are sensitive to frost, the proper planting time is after the chance of frost in your area has passed. Dig a hole about the size of the pot in which you purchased them. Remove the plant from the planter. Place it into the planting hole. Refill the hole with soil and press it firmly around the plant. Give your new petunia a nice drink of water and wait for beautiful new flowers.
Resources – How to Plant Petunias
The University of Minnesota Extension – Growing Petunias
Iowas State University – Extension and Outreach – Horticulture and Home Pest News – How to Start Petunias Indoors from Seed
