QA

Quick Answer: How To Start Petunias From Seed

Are petunias easy to grow from seed?

Petunias are moderately easy to grow from seed, and extremely easy to grow from commercially grown seedlings. Use petunias everywhere there is sun. The low growing types are ideal for the front of a flower border, in planters near doorways and pools, or on patios.

How long does it take to grow petunias from seeds?

Water with a fine mist to wash them into the potting material or press them in gently with your fingers before watering. Cover the container with clear plastic and store it in a bright, warm (70 to 85 degrees F) place–out of direct sunlight–until seeds begin to sprout. This usually takes 7 to 10 days after planting.

When should you start petunia seeds?

Summary. In summation, it is important to sow petunia seeds indoors approximately 10 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date. This should be after the danger of potential frost has passed, which could be anywhere from late February to early March or April or late April to early May, depending on where you live.

Do you cover petunia seeds?

Sow the seeds thinly and don’t cover them. They need light to germinate and even a thin covering of compost can severely reduce their chances. Carefully monitor the moisture in the compost and keep it moist.

How long do petunia seedlings take to flower?

Expect around 12 weeks from seed sowing to flowering. Seedlings may bloom six to 10 weeks from planting into a pot, hanging basket or garden bed. Petunias come in a range of shapes, including ruffled petals and double flowers.

What is the best time to plant petunias?

As with almost all bedding plants these days, you can find a wide assortment of petunias at local garden centers. For best results, plant petunias in September through early November or late January through mid-March.

Do petunias come back every year?

Do Petunias Come Back Every Year? Petunias are perennials, however, they are typically treated as annuals. If you live in a cooler climate and want your petunias to grow back in the spring, then you must store them indoors during the winter.

Can you direct sow petunias?

When direct-sowing, note that petunia seeds are extremely fine. Mix them with sand if you plan on broadcast-seeding, or consider making your own seed tape.

How do you thin petunia seedlings?

Standard Thinning Examine the seedlings closely. Snip through the stems of the weaker seedlings at soil level. Thin petunias in seedling pots so only one seedling remains in each pot. Prepare individual seedling pots prior to thinning. Insert a large spoon into the soil and scoop out the cluster of seedlings.

Is Miracle Grow good for petunias?

Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food guaranteed bigger, more beautiful plants! It is full of essential nutrients that will make your petunias happy and healthy. This fertilizer is intended to be applied every 7-14 days.

How many petunia seeds are in a cell?

1 seed per cell for pellets. If you broadcast seed in a tray, don’t wait too long (4 -5 weeks) to transplant them into individual pots 2-1/2″ are good for most. Most waves are pelletted (clay coating) so they are much easier to plant. Don’t use the jiffy packs.

Are coffee grounds good for petunias?

The answer to this is “YES”. Coffee grounds serve as effective fertilizers for petunias and are also inexpensive. With coffee grounds, petunias which are known to be heavy feeders bloom profusely. The fact that petunias love coffee grounds already makes them lovers of acidic soil and will grow best in soil with low pH.

How often should I water petunia seeds?

Newly planted petunias need evenly moist soil for the first few weeks after planting, to establish a healthy root system. Once established, reduce watering to once every seven to 10 days. Provide 1 to 2 inches of water at each irrigation, which is enough water to moisten the top 6 to 8 inches of soil.

How do you make petunias grow faster?

Usually, when temperature increases, petunias grow faster. Precisely, petunias need heat for optimal growth. In case you’re looking to get the best result, use warm areas. That is, between 65- and 75-degrees Fahrenheit.

How long do petunia cuttings take to root?

Roots will form in about 6 weeks. You won’t need to tug at the plants (as some gardeners recommend), in order to discover that roots have developed. Just look for signs of new growth.

How do I make my petunias Fuller?

Get into the habit of checking their moisture level each morning and give them a good drink of water. If your petunias are in the ground, then you may need to water them every three to five days. We all know that petunias bloom most prolifically if we deadhead the spent flowers regularly.

What does the name petunia mean?

The name Petunia is primarily a female name of Latin origin that means Flower From Nightshade Family. A plant of the nightshade family with brightly colored funnel-shaped flowers. From the French petun, relating to tobacco, to which the flower is related.

What does a petunia symbolize?

What Do Petunias Symbolize? Some of the most common meanings for the petunia are a soothing nature, resentment, and anger. Anger and resentment are common themes for this flower when it is given to someone with whom you have recently had an argument.