Petunia

Scientific Name: Petunia spp.

Common Names: Petunia

Native to: Native to South America (mainly Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay)

Lighting Requirements: Full sun. Petunias thrive in bright, direct sunlight and require at least 6 hours of sun per day for optimal growth and blooming.

Height: 6 to 18 inches 

Width: 12 to 18 inches 

Winter Look: Typically grown as an annual in colder climates, dying after the first frost. 

Seasonal Interest: Spring to fall, with peak blooming in spring

Drought Tolerance: Moderate. Petunias prefer consistent moisture but can tolerate brief periods of drought once established. However, they perform best with regular watering.

Soil Requirements: Well-draining, fertile soil with good organic matter

pH Range: 6.0 to 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 10 to 11 (grown as an annual in colder zones)

Deer Resistance: Low; deer candy

Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

Potential Issues: Susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, and fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Notes: Petunias are among the most popular bedding plants, known for their vibrant, colorful flowers in various shades, including purple, red, pink, white, blue, and yellow. They are commonly grown in containers, hanging baskets, flower beds, and window boxes, adding brilliant color to gardens from spring to fall. Petunias are generally low-maintenance and easy to grow, but they require regular deadheading to maintain their appearance and encourage continuous blooming. They thrive in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil and benefit from consistent watering during dry spells. Petunias can be grown from seed, but most are purchased as young plants due to their relatively short growing season.

They prefer mild temperatures of the spring and fall. They struggle in the summer.