Here are some top tips and tricks on How to Grow Fuller and Bigger Petunias. Follow these to have its massive flowers in your garden!
Petunias look the best when they are full of colorful blooms! So, what is the right way to ensure they flower well and profusely? Here are the top tips on How to Grow Fuller and Bigger Petunias!
Check out the best types of petunias here
How to Grow Fuller and Bigger Petunias?
1. Pinching
Pinch the stems with your forefingers or thumb, exactly above the first set of healthy leaves, and you will have rich, fresh blooms throughout the summer months.
If you have purchased petunias from the garden center or growing them from transplants, pinch off the top one inch from each stem.
If you’re growing petunia from seeds (multifloras and grandifloras) pinch them back when they’re 5-6 inches tall. This will make them grow fuller and bushier.
Check out 27 Incredible Combinations with Petunias here
2. Deadheading
Deadheading is one more essential step that makes petunias fuller and removes worn-out, faded flowers so the plant focuses its energy on producing more blossoms.
Follow two simple rules, first, cut off the flower once they become brown, and second, snip off the stems right above the next set of leaves.
3. Pruning Can Do Wonders!
Start pruning the plant when it is up to 8-10 inches long. Snip three or four stems in half by making a cut just above the node. After this, the plant will form two or more new growing tips under each cut, and you will see these tips flower soon!
Have a leggy Petunia? Here’s how to fix it!
4. Grow them in Full Sun
To have fuller petunias, a good sunbath for at least 5-6 hours is a must. Petunias favor warmth and do best in them.
Note: If you are living in USDA Zone 9-11 and other warmer regions can provide shade in the afternoon.
5. Use the Right Growing Medium
For fuller petunias, grow them in well-draining soil blended with peat moss or manure. If you are using regular garden soil, amend it with compost.
You can prepare potting mix on your own as well. Check the post here.
6. Water Carefully
Underwatering can make the blooms look squishy and weak, whereas overwatering can kill the plant. A healthy petunia requires moderate watering and slightly moist soil for best growth.
Keep in mind to water the plant when the topsoil dries out a bit between watering.
7. Fertilize Correctly
You can keep the petunias bushier by correctly feeding them. Using a water-soluble, 24-12-17 fertilizer, diluted to half of its strength, once in 3-5 weeks is best. Do follow the instructions on the label. Alternatively, you can also use a balanced blend.
Remember, the key here is to feed the petunias more frequently with a weak dose rather than fertilizing them with a strong dose in a long gap.
If your container-grown petunia plants have lush foliage but fewer or no blooms, then use a fertilizer that has a low nitrogen content.
