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Tidal Wave Purple

Family: Solanaceae Garden Petunia
Zone 6b Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add Tidal Wave Purple to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.

Velvety, tidal waves of rich purple bloom pour over the edge of containers with a spellbinding, near-ink depth—each flower softly luminous against the foliage.

Tidal Wave Purple forms a fast, trailing-spreading mound that stays lush and floriferous through the season, with a delicate, satin-like petal texture that catches the light as it drapes. Ideal for cascading displays, it’s a showstopper for hanging baskets and window boxes, delivering nonstop color and graceful spill from early summer onward.

Light: Full SunMaturity: 70 DaysHabit: Spreading

Botanical illustration of Tidal Wave Purple

Planting schedules and alerts are optimized for Columbus (Zone 6b).

Crop Dates

MilestoneDate
Start IndoorsFeb 14th
Last FrostApr 25th
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsApr 25th
Harvest BeginsJul 4th
Harvest EndsOct 16th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity70
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitSpreading
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthSurface
Germination Temp (°F)70
Min Soil Temp (°F)50
Min Night Temp (°F)35
Harden Off (days)7

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest is most likely to hit Petunia × atkinsiana (Wave Purple) and what’s the best way to control it?
Watch closely for aphids and tiny thrips on the new growth, which can cause distorted buds and sticky residue or bronzing. Spray the plant thoroughly with insecticidal soap (or a neem-based product labeled for ornamentals) and repeat every 5–7 days for 2–3 rounds. Improve airflow by avoiding overcrowding so infections and pest pressure don’t build up in the canopy.
How often should I water Petunia × atkinsiana during the main growing phase?
During active growth, keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy—water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry. Petunias (Solanaceae) in containers often need more frequent watering, typically daily in hot weather, while in-ground plants may only need a couple times per week depending on rainfall. If blooms suddenly wilt and leaves feel limp, water promptly and then let excess water drain away rather than leaving the roots in standing moisture.
How do I know when Petunia × atkinsiana is ready to harvest, and what exactly should I harvest?
Petunia × atkinsiana is generally grown for flowers, not seed; it’s “ready” to harvest as soon as plants produce fully open, vibrant blooms (often around the 70-day schedule from sowing to first quality flowering). Harvest by snipping individual open flowers (or small clusters) in the morning before heat and use them fresh. Regular deadheading—removing spent blooms—also signals the plant to keep producing new flowers.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Tidal Wave Purple in Zone 6b typically begins around 2026-04-25. Wait until soil reaches at least 50°F before transplanting Tidal Wave Purple.

Garden Alerts

In Zone 6b, the average last spring frost is around April 25. Watch soil temperature before transplanting Tidal Wave Purple.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Tidal Wave Purple in Zone 6b typically begins around 2026-04-25. Wait until soil reaches at least 50°F before transplanting Tidal Wave Purple.

Garden Alerts

In Zone 6b, the average last spring frost is around April 25. Watch soil temperature before transplanting Tidal Wave Purple.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 50°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

For best “cascading mound” performance, pinch lightly once early growth is established and keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.