Petunia

Zone 8b Save Garden

🌱 70d to harvest Spreading

Velvety, trumpet-shaped blooms spill in a cascading ribbon, opening to a velour-like glow that feels almost luminous against the …

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Jan 12th
Last Frost	Mar 23rd
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Mar 9th
Harvest Begins	May 18th
Harvest Ends	Nov 12th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	70
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Spreading
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Surface
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	50
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	7

Recommended Companions

Durango Red Marigold

Inca II Marigold

Moonsong Deep Orange Marigold

Rhapsody In Blue Salvia

Red Gem Marigold

Fireball Marigold

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects Petunia (Petunia × atkinsiana), and how can I treat it?

Petunias (Solanaceae) are especially prone to powdery mildew and botrytis in humid, crowded plantings. Improve airflow by spacing plants and removing affected leaves, then spray with a labeled fungicide for powdery mildew/botrytis and water at the soil line rather than overhead. If you see gray mold/botrytis, remove the worst blooms and discard them to prevent spread.

How often should I water Petunia during active growth, and what soil moisture level should I aim for?

During the main growth phase (after plants are established and actively blooming), water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry, then water thoroughly until excess drains. Petunias do best with consistently moist (not soggy) soil—wet soil can trigger root problems and botrytis. In hot weather or containers, this may mean daily checks, because the surface can dry quickly.

How do I know when Petunia is ready to harvest?

Petunia is typically harvested as flowers rather than a mature “crop” at 70 days; start harvesting when individual blooms are fully colored and open. For best continued blooming, deadhead spent flowers daily or every few days by pinching/cutting just above the next healthy set of leaves. Stop harvesting/maintaining deadheads only when you’re ready for the plants to decline, since regular deadheading keeps new buds forming.

Velvety, trumpet-shaped blooms spill in a cascading ribbon, opening to a velour-like glow that feels almost luminous against the foliage. Petunia ‘Petunia’ (trailing/spreading) delivers a long, showy season of color with a soft, slightly ruffled texture and a dependable, ground-hugging habit that makes every bed and container look lavish. Ideal for bedding displays and hanging baskets where its trailing drape can be admired at every angle.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

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

Expert Note

Start petunia seeds indoors early under warmth/light, then transplant only after nights are reliably warm to avoid chilling injury.