Garden Petunia (Petunia × hybrida)

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Sunlight Requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for abundant blooming; tolerates light afternoon shade in hot climates

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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

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Temperature Thrives at 18–24℃; protect from frost below 10℃ to prevent foliage damage

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Leaf: Oval, fuzzy bright green leaves arranged oppositely along stems
Flower: Trumpet-shaped blooms in solid or variegated hues (white, pink, purple, red)
Stem: Soft, herbaceous stems covered in fine, short hairs

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Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in late autumn as growth slows

Banana Peel Tea：Soak 1 chopped banana peel in 1 liter of water for 24 hours, strain, and use to water plants directly to provide natural potassium

Pruning

Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season
Trim leggy stems mid-season to promote bushier, more compact growth
Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and appearance

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic; no harmful effects on cats

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Culture: Victorian floriography associated petunias with anger; now viewed as a symbol of comfort and soothing

Usage: Ornamental for garden beds, hanging baskets, window boxes; attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds