Learning Download: How to Grow Petunias

Petunias are one of the most popular flowers to grow in America, and the flower has a wide variety of uses. Petunias are a popular flower to grow from seed because many garden centers only sell a few different kinds of already sprouted plants.

Before Planting: Petunia seeds should be started indoors up to 10 weeks before the last frost.

Planting: Once seedlings have two sets of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots. Keep them under lights indoors until it’s time to transplant them. After the last frost, transplant the seedlings to the garden.

Watering: Petunias require frequent watering as their roots are shallow and dry out quickly.

Fertilizer: Once seedlings are transplanted, sprinkle a teaspoon of an all-purpose, granular fertilizer around the base of each plant.

Days to Maturity: Petunias will bloom all spring until fall.

Harvesting: The seed pod is ready when it turns brown and begins to crack. Cut the seed pod off the stem and spread the pods in a single layer on a paper towel. Place in a cool, dry place for a week to allow for the seeds to dry. Break the pods open after a week and place the seeds in an envelop to keep until planting.

Tips: By the midsummer, the plants may begin to get leggy. To prevent this, cut each stem back by half.