Mid-May is the time for planting annuals and the most popular by far for bedding, baskets and containers is the petunia.  This free-blooming Argentinean native provides wave after wave of mouthwatering color through summer until autumn frosts.

Petunias are divided into three classes:  grandiflora, multifloras and millifloras.  Grandfloras include the single flower Supercascade, Daddy, Magic, Supermagic and Dreams series plus the double flower Pirouette andTart series.  Vigorous plants with large flowers, grandifloras require frequent deadheading for peak performance.  Many are fragrant.  The Supercascade series is particularly excellent in hanging baskets.

Multifloras are divided into two sub-groups—floribundas and multifloras.  All multifloras are more tolerant of hot weather with smaller blooms that the grandifloras.  Floribundas include the Madness and Picotee series.  Both have slightly larger blooms than is typical of this class.  Madness petunias have a striking dark veining on their petals, while Picotee has a contrasting, frilly edge.

Milliforras  are a recent hybrid encompassing the Fantasy series.  Tiny one-inch blooms cover a compact plant.  Delicate in appearance, they bloom profusely and do not require pinching to maintain shape.  Fantasy Pink Morn is an All-America selections winner establishing its future popularity in American gardens.  Fantasy Ivory and Fantasy Red Morn are equally special.

Plant petunias in full sun as shade discourages flowering.  Water frequently in hot weather and pinch back to encourage branching and flowering, particularly after the first flush of blooms.  Feed with all-purpose fertilizer.  Varieties with double flowers may benefit from an extra feeding each month.  A relative of the tobacco family, petunias are susceptible to tobacco mosaic virus, so smokers should wash hands before handling them.

Bold color or soft pastel, there is a petunia to suit every taste and garden design.  So indulge and enjoy! 

For any questions you have on this article, or any topic of concern, email us—or better yet, come by and talk to one of our professional staff members.  Remember, Phelan Gardens is open year-round!    

For additional information, check the following links:

• Petunia
• Home & Garden Television - Petunias
• Petunias